![Lapis Lazuli (Lapis Lazuli (Complex rock primarily composed of Lazurite (Na,Ca)8[(SO4,S,Cl)2|(AlSiO4)6], Calcite, and Pyrite)) — metamorphic](https://media.rock.id/lapis-lazuli-f1e24aab-86eb-4bd7-9d9e-d8e32fe7764a-compressed.jpg)
metamorphic
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli (Complex rock primarily composed of Lazurite (Na,Ca)8[(SO4,S,Cl)2|(AlSiO4)6], Calcite, and Pyrite)
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep intense royal blue, frequently speckled with gold-colored pyrite inclusions and white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to dull/greasy; Crystal Structure: Aggregate rock (lazurite itself is cubic); Cleavage: None in rock form.
- Hardness
- 5 to 5
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull/greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep intense royal blue, frequently speckled with gold-colored pyrite inclusions and white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to dull/greasy; Crystal Structure: Aggregate rock (lazurite itself is cubic); Cleavage: None in rock form.
Formation & geological history
Formed through contact metamorphism when limestone or marble is subjected to high heat and chemical fluid alteration from nearby igneous intrusions. Major historical sources include Badakhshan province in northern Afghanistan, as well as Russia and Chile.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in jewelry making (beads, cabochons, carvings), ornamental art, inlay work, and historically ground into powder to make the precious pigment ultramarine used by Renaissance painters.
Geological facts
Lapis Lazuli has been mined for over 6,000 years, making it one of the oldest traded gemstones in human history. King Tutankhamun's famous funeral mask and ancient Egyptian scarabs feature extensive lapis lazuli inlay.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its distinct deep royal blue color mixed with metallic brassy pyrite specks and white calcite veins. Authentic specimens react with weak acid on calcite veins and release a slight sulfur smell when scratched.
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