metamorphic

Lapis lazuli

Lazurite-rich lapis lazuli; chiefly lazurite (Na₃CaAl₃Si₃O₁₂S), with calcite and commonly pyrite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The upper specimen appears to be rough, gray-blue lapis; the lower piece is polished deep-blue lapis. Lazurite has Mohs hardness 5–5.5 and a glassy-to-dull luster; lapis is an aggregate with variable hardness and no consistent cleavage.

Identified September 24, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Lapis lazuli in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Lapis lazuli
Scientific name: Lazurite-rich lapis lazuli; chiefly lazurite (Na₃CaAl₃Si₃O₁₂S), with calcite and commonly pyrite
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 24, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$40 for small common pieces; larger, richly colored, well-polished specimens can range from $50 to several hundred dollars.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Lapis forms through contact metamorphism of limestone, often in Precambrian rocks. The label indicates Afghanistan, whose deposits formed in the Sar-e-Sang region of Badakhshan.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, decorative objects, and historically as the ultramarine pigment. Polished material is valued in jewelry and ornament.

Geological facts

The vivid blue color comes mainly from sulfur-bearing lazurite; gold-colored flecks, when present, are usually pyrite, not gold.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its intense blue color, opaque appearance, and possible white calcite or brassy pyrite flecks; Afghan lapis is especially renowned. The image supports a likely identification, though color alone cannot confirm composition.