SUPER lot of deep vibrant Swiss Blue Aquamarine from a relatively new find in Badakshan, Afghanistan.  This is some of the deepest blue material we have ever seen coming from South Asia and we don't know how much more of this material will be found in the future. Most of the stones are slightly to moderately included; however, there are VERY gemmy areas in much of the rough. There are plenty of stones in here that will cut eye-clean with a little work; however, most clean stones are going to be in the carat or under range.

This is a great lot containing both cabbing and faceting rough! We are selling this lot as cab grade; however, roughly 10-15%+ of this lot is some type of facet grade. You will have to cob and saw this material up to get it all and in some stones it may not be worth it because of size. This is a great deal as it is rare to get this color naturally in Aquamarine. This is the ONLY lot of this colored material we have and it is practically NEVER produced in this color intensity in Afghanistan nor Pakistan! This lot is not to be missed!

1. Afghanistan seldom produces Aquamarine on a regular basis; however, Pakistan is well known for its significant Aquamarine deposits. The largest Pakistani deposits are situated in the north close to Gilgit. The material is typically light in color but very clean and often available in large sizes. Much of this material is also treated to produce Golden Beryl and various shades of Yellow. It is important to note that many people are selling this Yellow Beryl as natural. From our experience and dealings we have come to the conclusion that most of the material that is Yellow Beryl and claimed to be of Afghani origin is actually treated Pakistani material. In 7+ years of traveling to the region and purchasing from the local markets we have NEVER once come across any Natural Golden Beryl from the region.

2. There are several new finds of gemstones coming from the Badakshan region of Afghanistan and some of these are poised to be hot sellers as supply increases and becomes more consistent. Significant amounts of Purple Scapolite, Ruby Red Spinel, Deep Aquamarine and other gemstones have been found in this region are are now beginning to trickle into the marketplace.