description Afghanite Overview
Afghanite is a rare blue to colorless feldspathoid mineral in the cancrinite-sodalite group. It was first identified in 1968 at the Sar-e-Sang area of Afghanistan, the locality reflected in its name, and it commonly occurs with lazurite and other minerals in lapis lazuli-bearing rocks. Transparent or strongly colored pieces are sought by mineral collectors and may be cut as unusual gemstones, but the mineral remains uncommon in jewelry.
help Afghanite FAQ
Why is Afghanite named Afghanite?
Afghanite was first identified in 1968 at Sar-e-Sang in Afghanistan. Its name reflects that type locality.
What color is Afghanite?
Afghanite is commonly blue to colorless. It is a rare feldspathoid mineral in the cancrinite-sodalite group.
What minerals occur with Afghanite?
Afghanite commonly occurs with lazurite and other minerals associated with lapis lazuli-bearing rocks. Sar-e-Sang is especially connected with this mineral association.
Is Afghanite the same as lapis lazuli?
No. Afghanite is an individual mineral, while lapis lazuli is a rock made from a mixture of minerals, commonly including lazurite. Afghanite can occur in lapis lazuli-bearing material.
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