Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli (Rock, predominantly Lazurite with Calcite and Pyrite) · Decorative Stone / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Cubic (Lazurite), massive or granular habit as a rock
Mineral Group
Silicate mineral rock / Feldspathoid group
Chemical Formula
(Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(SO4,S,Cl)2 (Lazurite primary component)
Formation Process
Metamorphic formation, typically through contact metamorphism of limestone into skarn deposits
About This Crystal
The image shows a polished dark blue bead, identified as lapis lazuli, characterized by its deep indigo to royal blue color with subtle dark variations. It is adjacent to light blue plastic letter beads and metallic spacer rings on a bracelet. Lapis lazuli is an aggregate rock rather than a single mineral, featuring a vitreous to greasy luster and opaque transparency.
Physical Characteristics
Deep royal blue to ultramarine body color, often flecked with golden pyrite inclusions and white calcite veining. Streak is light blue. Hardness is 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale. Fracture is uneven to conchoidal. Cleavage is indistinct.
Optical Properties
Isotropic (Lazurite is cubic and singly refractive), refractive index around 1.50 to 1.67 depending on exact mineral composition. Opaque with no notable pleochroism.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Afghanistan (Badakhshan region, primary historical source), Chile, Russia, USA
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5, making it moderately soft compared to quartz or corundum. Susceptible to scratching by harder materials and sensitive to acids, harsh chemicals, and prolonged heat.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, harsh chemicals, acids, and prolonged immersion in water due to porous calcite and pyrite components. Store separately to avoid scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon depending on grade. High-grade Persian lapis with intense dark blue and minimal calcite or excessive pyrite is rare and more valuable. Widely used in jewelry and carvings.
Special Characteristics
Golden brassy flecks of pyrite and white patches of calcite creating a starry night appearance. Some specimens may show weak orange fluorescence under ultraviolet light.
Lore & History
Used extensively by ancient civilizations including the ancient Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Sumerians for amulets, scarabs, and royal jewelry, as well as ground into ultramarine pigment for Renaissance paintings. Associated traditionally with the throat and third eye chakras, symbolizing truth, wisdom, and inner power.