gemstone

Blue stone cabochon, likely lapis lazuli or dyed stone

Lapis lazuli: lazurite-rich rock, chiefly (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(S,SO)₂; exact identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small polished, faceted blue piece with medium luster and apparently opaque texture. Lapis lazuli typically has Mohs hardness 5–5.5, deep ultramarine color, and may contain white calcite and metallic pyrite specks.

Identified August 24, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue stone cabochon, likely lapis lazuli or dyed stone
Scientific name: Lapis lazuli: lazurite-rich rock, chiefly (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(S,SO)₂; exact identification is uncertain from the image
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 24, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small common cabochon; $25–$100+ if confirmed high-grade natural Afghan lapis.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural lapis lazuli forms by contact metamorphism of limestone, commonly in Precambrian deposits; notable material comes from Afghanistan, Chile, and Siberia. The specimen appears cut or polished rather than naturally crystallized.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, and historically as the ultramarine pigment source. Lower-grade blue stones may be dyed jasper, sodalite, or glass substitutes.

Geological facts

True lapis commonly shows uneven blue color with calcite veining or pyrite flecks; uniformly vivid blue material can be treated or synthetic. It is a rock rather than a single mineral.

Field identification & locations

Check for natural variation, white calcite, and brassy pyrite; a glassy appearance, bubbles, or perfectly uniform color suggests imitation. A scratch test and magnification help, but laboratory testing is preferable.