metamorphic
Lapis Lazuli
(Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(S,SO4,Cl)1-2 (Complex silicate rock)
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep blue, rich royal blue, often with golden pyrite inclusions and white calcite streaks. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Isometric (as individual minerals within the rock). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.7 to 2.9.
- Hardness
- 5 to 5
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Deep blue, rich royal blue, often with golden pyrite inclusions and white calcite streaks. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Isometric (as individual minerals within the rock). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.7 to 2.9.
Formation & geological history
Formed through contact metamorphism of limestone, typically associated with intrusive igneous rocks. Most significant deposits are found in the Sar-e-Sang district of Badakhshan province, Afghanistan, formed over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used for ornamental objects, carvings, inlay work, beads, cabochons in jewelry, and historically ground into ultramarine pigment for master paintings.
Geological facts
Lapis lazuli is classified as a rock rather than a mineral because it is an aggregate of multiple minerals, primarily lazurite, calcite, and pyrite.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic deep ultramarine blue color combined with sparkling brass-yellow pyrite flecks and occasional white calcite veins. Commonly found in Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, and the USA.
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