279g Maden-4 Rough Lapis Lazuli Specimen With Chalcopyrite, Afghanistan

This 279-gram rough lapis lazuli specimen has been mined from Maden-4 (Mine 4) in Afghanistan. Its an unpolished rock with deep blue lapis material, pale matrix, and contrasting metallic golden-toned Chalcopyrite areas across an irregular natural surface. Size Idea: Measuring approximately 65 × 50 × 55 mm, the piece has a solid presence for cabinet display while remaining easy to handle and examine. It may also interest experienced lapidary collectors who prefer to assess rough material before planning any cut. Maden-4 is associated with Afghanistan’s historic Sar-e-Sang lapis mining district in Badakhshan. Lapis lazuli from this high-mountain region has been worked and traded for thousands of years. As with any individual mine specimen, its color, matrix, metallic mineral distribution, edges, and natural fractures should be judged from the photographs of the actual piece. Gem type: Natural lapis lazuli, classified on this listing as a semi-precious gemstone. Specimen category: Rough rock and mineral collectible with an irregular, unpolished form. Color and contrast: Dark blue lapis material with pale matrix and metallic golden-toned Chalcopyrite areas. Weight: 279 grams. Dimensions: Approximately 65 × 50 × 55 mm. Collector notes View every angle before choosing a display position or planning lapidary work. Natural rough may contain surface pits, inclusions, matrix, fractures, and uneven edges. Keep the specimen dry, remove loose dust gently with a soft brush, and store it separately from harder minerals that could scratch the surface. FAQs Is this Maden-4 lapis suitable for cutting? It may interest lapidary collectors, but suitability depends on its internal fractures and matrix. Assess every photographed angle before cutting. Why does rough lapis lazuli contain pale matrix? Lapis lazuli is a rock made from several minerals, so calcite-rich or other pale matrix can occur naturally within rough material. How should this rough lapis specimen be stored? Keep it dry and separated from harder stones. Use a soft brush or cloth for gentle surface cleaning.