metamorphic

Lapis Lazuli

Rock composed mainly of lazurite ((Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(SO4,S,Cl)2), calcite, and pyrite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, deep blue color with distinctive golden pyrite inclusions and white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, massive crystal structure, specific gravity of 2.7 to 2.9

Identified July 30, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by contact metamorphism of limestone, typically associated with intrusive igneous rocks like granites, often dating back millions of years

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry, carvings, mosaics, inlay work, and historically ground into ultramarine pigment for fine art

Geological facts

Lapis lazuli has been prized as a gemstone since antiquity, heavily used by ancient Egyptians in funerary masks, such as that of King Tutankhamun

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its rich royal blue color combined with metallic brassy flecks of pyrite and white calcite patches; major deposits are found in Afghanistan, Chile, and Russia