Carved Clear Quartz Laughing Buddha Figurine

This is a small, solid figurine of the Laughing Buddha (Budai), hand-carved from a single piece of high-clarity clear quartz. The piece measures approximately 2 to 3 inches in height. It depicts the seated, rotund deity with a characteristic joyful expression, elongated earlobes, and a large protruding belly. The craftsmanship shows smooth, rounded contours with deep recesses defining the folds of the robes and the facial features. The material is remarkably transparent with minimal visible inclusions, refracting light through the polished surfaces and deep-relief carving. Given the 'heavy solid' description, it likely contains significant mineral weight consistent with natural crystalline quartz. The condition appears excellent with no major chips, cracks, or fractures visible; the surface maintains a high-gloss luster indicative of skilled lapidary work. While there are no visible maker's marks, the style is contemporary, likely mid-to-late 20th century, following traditional Chinese iconographic designs. The quality of the stone and the precision of the polish suggest it was intended as a decorative feng shui object or a high-end spiritual collectible.