metamorphic
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli (Metamorphic Rock containing Lazurite, Calcite, Pyrite, and Sodalite)
Hardness: 5-5.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep royal blue with inclusions of white calcite and golden pyrite. Luster: Vitreous to greasy/dull. Cleavage: None (poor in constituent minerals). Specific gravity: 2.7-2.9.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy/dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep royal blue with inclusions of white calcite and golden pyrite. Luster: Vitreous to greasy/dull. Cleavage: None (poor in constituent minerals). Specific gravity: 2.7-2.9.
Formation & geological history
Formed through contact metamorphism, typically when limestone or marble is altered by hydrothermal fluids near igneous intrusions, enriching the rock in sulfur and sodium.
Uses & applications
Used widely for thousands of years as a gemstone, decorative carvings, inlay work, beads, and historically ground into the valuable ultramarine pigment.
Geological facts
Lapis lazuli was prized by ancient Egyptian pharaohs, including King Tutankhamun, whose death mask features prominent lapis inlays. Johannes Vermeer used ground lapis lazuli (ultramarine) in famous paintings like 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive deep blue color combined with metallic brassy-yellow pyrite flecks and white streaks of calcite. Major historical deposits are in Badakhshan, Afghanistan, as well as Chile, Russia, and Myanmar.
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