metamorphic

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli (Metamorphic Rock containing Lazurite, Calcite, Pyrite, and Sodalite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 24, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

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.