![Lapis Lazuli (Lazurite crystals on Marble) (Lazurite / (Na,Ca)8[(S,Cl,SO4,OH)2|(AlSiO4)6]) — metamorphic](https://media.rockidentification.com/ca5b6b6e-b6e2-4b43-a36a-1b2c65c15ea3-compressed.jpg)
metamorphic
Lapis Lazuli (Lazurite crystals on Marble)
Lazurite / (Na,Ca)8[(S,Cl,SO4,OH)2|(AlSiO4)6]
Hardness: 5-5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep royal blue; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (dodecahedral crystals); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.38-2.45.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Deep royal blue
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep royal blue; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (dodecahedral crystals); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.38-2.45.
Formation & geological history
Formed through contact metamorphism where limestone or marble is altered by igneous intrusions. The specimen shows dark blue lazurite crystals embedded in a white marble (calcite) matrix. Most high-quality specimens originate from the Sar-e-Sang district of Afghanistan, dating back millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and ornamental objects. Historically ground into 'ultramarine' pigment for fine art painting. Highly valued by mineral collectors for well-defined crystal specimens.
Geological facts
Lapis Lazuli has been mined for over 6,000 years. It was highly prized in Ancient Egypt for amulets and the funeral mask of Tutankhamun. Unlike most gemstones, it is technically a rock composed of multiple minerals (Lazurite, Calcite, Sodalite, and Pyrite).
Field identification & locations
Identify by its intense 'ultramarine' blue color and association with white calcite or gold-flecked pyrite. In the field, look for marble deposits near igneous contacts. Collectors should look for sharp crystal edges and deep saturation of color without excessive gray/white matrix.
More like this
