The original locality for lapis lazuli is the Sar-e-Sang deposit in Afghanistan's remote Badakhshan district. In the Achaemenid period, azure was called "Kabutkeh". In the Sassanid period, azure was consumed a lot. The roof of Ctesiphon, as well as various sculptures, is made of azure; it is possible that they used azurite instead of azure in making these works. 

Buying and selling all kinds of Amber gemstones at special prices in the Asian market can be an exciting venture for gemstone enthusiasts and traders. It's advisable to conduct thorough research, work with reputable sellers, and seek professional advice or guidance when buying or selling Amber gemstones in the Asian market to ensure a fair and satisfactory transaction.

In 2010, US Pentagon officials, along with US geologists, uncovered approximately $ 1 trillion in untapped mineral reserves in Afghanistan. A Pentagon note says Afghanistan could become Saudi Arabia's lithium. Some believe that intact minerals are worth up to $ 3 trillion.