igneous
Tumbled K2 stone (granite with blue azurite)
K2 granite, chiefly quartz–alkali feldspar–biotite with azurite inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6–7 Mohs; pale gray/cream matrix with blue azurite spots and dark minerals, vitreous to dull luster, granular interlocking crystals, and no prominent cleavage as a whole. The specimen is polished/tumbled.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6–7 Mohs; pale gray/cream matrix with blue azurite spots and dark minerals, vitreous to dull luster, granular interlocking crystals, and no prominent cleavage as a whole. The specimen is polished/tumbled.
Formation & geological history
A coarse-grained intrusive granite formed from slowly cooling magma, likely Paleozoic to Mesozoic in age; blue azurite formed later through copper-bearing hydrothermal alteration. Most commercial K2 stone comes from the K2 region of Pakistan near the China border.
Uses & applications
Primarily sold as a lapidary, cabochon, or collector stone; it has little industrial or construction use in small polished pieces.
Geological facts
K2 stone is marketed as “K2 jasper,” but it is not jasper: the host is granite and the blue material is generally azurite, sometimes with sodalite or other copper minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by a light granite-like matrix containing sharply contrasting blue round or irregular spots, unlike uniformly blue lapis lazuli. Copper-mineral blue spots and visible quartz/feldspar grains are diagnostic; avoid prolonged acids or harsh abrasion.
