Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli (Rock, primarily composed of Lazurite, Calcite, and Pyrite) · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric) for the individual mineral components (lazurite, pyrite), typically found as massive or compact aggregates
Mineral Group
Silicate, specifically a feldspathoid of the sodalite group
Chemical Formula
(Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(SO4,S,Cl)2 (Lazurite as the primary mineral component)
Formation Process
Formed via contact metamorphism of impure limestone, typically occurring at high temperatures and moderate pressures
About This Crystal
Vivid deep royal blue polished cabochon displaying a rich color saturation with characteristic metallic brassy golden flecks of pyrite scattered across the surface, along with some lighter whitish calcite mottling
Physical Characteristics
Deep ultramarine blue body color with a light blue to bluish-white streak, imperfect to poor cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity around 2.5 to 3.0, brittle tenacity, and occasional weak orange-yellow fluorescence under UV light
Optical Properties
Isotropic (singly refractive) aggregate with a refractive index of approximately 1.50, typically opaque with a vitreous to greasy luster, lacking pleochroism due to its aggregate nature
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Badakhshan province in Afghanistan, with secondary deposits in Russia, Chile, and the United States
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5, moderate toughness, sensitive to acids, heat, and harsh household chemicals, requires careful wear when mounted in jewelry to avoid scratching
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, prolonged sun exposure, harsh chemicals, and contact with harder gems that can scratch its surface
Rarity & Value
Uncommon to rare depending on the grade, with highest value placed on intensely uniform deep blue stones with minimal white calcite and evenly distributed golden pyrite inclusions
Special Characteristics
Distinctive golden pyrite flecks creating a starry night effect, along with occasional white calcite veining that provides a natural matrix contrast
Lore & History
Historically revered by ancient civilizations including the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Greeks for amulets, royal jewelry, and powdered ultramarine pigment; traditionally associated with the third eye chakra, wisdom, and truth in modern crystal healing lore