Lapis lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, along with calcite, pyrite, and other minerals that create its distinctive appearance. This ancient gemstone has been treasured for over 6,000 years, prized by Egyptian pharaohs, Renaissance artists, and civilizations across the globe for its intense royal blue color flecked with golden pyrite inclusions. The highest quality lapis lazuli displays a rich, uniform blue with minimal white calcite veining and attractive golden pyrite specks that resemble stars in a midnight sky.
Specifications:
- Color range: Deep royal blue to navy blue with golden pyrite flecks and occasional white calcite veining
- Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on Mohs scale
- Origin: Primarily Afghanistan (Badakhshan Province - finest quality), Chile, Russia, and smaller deposits in Pakistan and Myanmar
- Sizes: Available from small 6mm beads to large 50mm+ cabochons and carved objects; commonly found in all sizes
- Shapes: Round and oval cabochons, beads, carved figurines, flat slabs, tumbled stones, and decorative objects
- Composition: Mixture of lazurite (blue), pyrite (gold flecks), and calcite (white veining)
- Luster: Dull to greasy when unpolished, vitreous when properly polished
- Transparency: Opaque with occasional translucent areas in high-quality specimens
