Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108103612" class="extiw" title="d:Q108103612"><span title="Wikipedian and OpenStreetMap mapper from Cologne, Open Data activist">Raimond Spekking</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
hexagonalrareSilicates
Afghanite
(Na,K)₂₂Ca₁₀(Si₂₄Al₂₄O₉₆)(SO₄)₆Cl₆·H₂O
This specimen displays a vibrant blue, translucent to transparent Afghanite crystal, likely prismatic in habit, set within a matrix.
Afghanite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
5.5Crystal System
hexagonalLuster
vitreousStreak Color
whiteCleavage
distinct on {1010}Fracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
2.6Colors
blue, white, colorlessTransparency
transparentType Locality
Sar-e-Sang, Badakhshan, AfghanistanMineral Group
SilicatesUses
collector, gemstoneAssociated Minerals
lazurite, diopside, pyrite, calciteRarity
rareGeological Context
Afghanite is a rare tectosilicate mineral that forms in contact metamorphosed limestones or marbles, often found in association with lazurite deposits.
