metamorphic

Tumbled lapis lazuli

Lapis lazuli; lazurite-rich rock (primarily lazurite, with calcite and pyrite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically deep ultramarine blue with white calcite and occasional brassy pyrite; glassy to dull luster, opaque, granular crystalline texture, hardness about 5–5.5 Mohs, no prominent cleavage, and specific gravity roughly 2.7–2.9.

Identified September 22, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

A metamorphic rock formed when limestone or marble undergoes contact metamorphism and metasomatism, commonly in Precambrian terrains. The finest material comes from Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush, with deposits also in Chile, Russia, and elsewhere.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative stone, beads, carvings, cabochons, and occasionally countertops; historically ground into ultramarine pigment. Tumbled pieces are mainly sold for jewelry, crafts, and mineral collecting.

Geological facts

The blue color is produced mainly by sulfur-bearing lazurite; calcite creates the white patches and pyrite produces gold-colored flecks. Historically, powdered lapis supplied costly natural ultramarine pigment for paintings.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its saturated blue color, softer white calcite matrix, and possible metallic pyrite flecks; uniform dyed blue stone may lack natural variation. Common rough and tumbled material is widely sold from Afghanistan and Chile.