Semi-Precious Stones · uncommon
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock prized since antiquity. The golden flecks are pyrite inclusions, while the blue comes from lazurite.
Also known as: blue stone, ultramarine, afghan gem.
Lapis Lazuli properties at a glance
| Type | Semi-Precious Stones |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | (Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(S,SO4,Cl)1-2 |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5 |
| Crystal system | cubic |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | Light blue |
| Cleavage | Poor |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Specific gravity | 2.8 |
| Transparency | opaque |
| Common colors | Deep Blue, Blue, Blue with gold flecks |
| Rarity | uncommon |
Geology & background
Forms through contact metamorphism of limestone with intrusive igneous rocks.
Treasured by ancient Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Chinese civilizations for jewelry and art.
How to identify Lapis Lazuli
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Lapis Lazuli examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Lapis Lazuli identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Lapis Lazuli vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Lapis Lazuli.
Where Lapis Lazuli is found
Lapis Lazuli is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Lapis Lazuli worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $10 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $50 |
| Premium specimen | $500+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Decorative objects
- Pigment (historical)
Interesting facts
- Ground lapis was used to create ultramarine pigment for Renaissance paintings
- Afghan lapis lazuli has been mined for over 6,000 years
- Cleopatra used powdered lapis as eye shadow
Care & safety
Treat Lapis Lazuli as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Lapis Lazuli FAQ
What is Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock prized since antiquity. The golden flecks are pyrite inclusions, while the blue comes from lazurite.
How much is Lapis Lazuli worth?
Entry-level Lapis Lazuli specimens sell for around $10, a typical collector specimen for about $50, and premium pieces for $500 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis Lazuli has a Mohs hardness of 5.5. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will.
Where is Lapis Lazuli found?
Notable sources of Lapis Lazuli include Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, USA, and Myanmar. Forms through contact metamorphism of limestone with intrusive igneous rocks..
What is Lapis Lazuli used for?
Lapis Lazuli is used for jewelry, decorative objects, and pigment (historical).
