metamorphic
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli (complex rock composed of Lazurite, Calcite, and Pyrite)
Hardness: 5-5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep celestial blue with golden flecks; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (for lazurite); Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.7-2.9
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Deep celestial blue with golden flecks
- 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 celestial blue with golden flecks; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (for lazurite); Cleavage: Imperfect; Specific Gravity: 2.7-2.9
Formation & geological history
Formed through contact metamorphism, where heat and pressure from intruding magma transform limestone or dolomite into a silicate-rich rock. Primary source locations are thousands of years old.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry, cabochons, carvings, and as a semi-precious gemstone. Historically ground into 'ultramarine' pigment for fine art.
Geological facts
Lapis lazuli was highly prized by Ancient Egyptians for amulets and funerary masks, including King Tutankhamun's mask. It is one of the oldest opaque gemstones in history.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic intense blue color mixed with white calcite veins and metallic golden pyrite inclusions. Highly sought after by collectors in Afghanistan, Chile, and Russia.
More like this
