Q. The highest-quality lapis lazuli is primarily mined in which region?
Answer: Badakhshan province, Afghanistan
Notes: Lapis lazuli is a vivid blue rock used as a semi-precious gemstone for millennia. Its blue color comes from lazurite (25-40%), with sulphur affecting its shade. Calcite reduces blueness, while pyrites add a golden sparkle. It is found in Chile, Russia, and the US, but the highest quality is from Badakhshan, Afghanistan, mined for 6,000+ years. India imported it from Badakhshan since 1000 BC, and Indus sites like Mohenjo-daro and Harappa had lapis ornaments. Egyptians used it for jewelry and eye shadow, while Renaissance artists made ultramarine pigment from it.

This question is part of Current Affairs Daily 20 MCQs Series Course on GKToday Android app.