Lapis Lazuli
Deep blue with a character of its own
Lapis lazuli brings a rich blue surface to jewellery. Tiny golden flecks and pale veins may give each stone a different pattern, while some pieces show a more even colour.
Choosing lapis begins with looking closely at that surface: its shade, its pattern and the way it will sit within the design.
Lapis lazuli at a gemological glance
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Material | A rock composed of several minerals, mainly lazurite, calcite and pyrite |
| Main mineral composition | Lazurite: Na₇Ca(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)(SO₄)(S₃)·H₂O (idealised formula); calcite: CaCO₃; pyrite: FeS₂ |
| Colours | Blue, sometimes with a violet or greenish hue, white areas and golden flecks |
| Hardness | Approximately 5–6 on the Mohs scale, depending on composition |
| Refractive index | Typically a spot reading around 1.50; readings can differ between mineral areas |
| Specific gravity | Approximately 2.75 (±0.25), depending on composition |
| Appearance | Usually opaque; commonly fashioned as cabochons, beads or carvings |
Lapis has no single chemical formula: its minerals occur in different proportions. The formula above describes idealised lazurite, not the whole rock.
Blue, white and golden details
The blue is associated chiefly with lazurite. Calcite can form white patches or veins, and pyrite creates metallic golden flecks. These flecks are a mineral within the rock, rather than gold.
A stone with a long history
Lapis was valued by ancient civilisations, including Egypt, and was used for jewellery and decorative objects. It later became a source of the blue pigment ultramarine, used by painters.
That history can be part of a personal design, whether through a simple outline or a piece inspired by older forms.
What influences quality and price?
A rich, even blue with little visible calcite is particularly sought after. Small, well-distributed pyrite flecks can be attractive; large pale areas or dense pyrite may reduce the value.
The quality of the polish, condition of the material, treatments and workmanship also matter. Size alone does not determine price.
Gemstone weight is measured in carats: one carat equals 0.2 grams. This is different from karat, the unit used to describe gold purity.
Treatments and identification
Lapis may be dyed or impregnated with wax or oil to change its colour and lustre. A strong blue colour alone does not establish whether a stone has been treated.
We assess the individual material and disclose known treatments when describing the stone.
Suitability for setting and care
Lapis offers a broad field of colour in pendants, earrings and rings. We plan the setting around the stone's condition, shape and intended use, paying attention to its edges.
Clean gently with lukewarm soapy water, testing an inconspicuous area first. Heat and solvents can affect some treatments. Ask for care advice for the individual piece before using a cleaning machine.
Sources Around the World
Afghanistan is a major historical source of lapis lazuli, particularly Badakhshan. Other familiar sources include the Lake Baikal region of Russia and Chile.
Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning — Beliefs and Traditions
The “Blue Stone: - In ancient Egypt, it was used to make amulets and jewelry. The Egyptians also used it to make dyes for the priestly robes and makeup for upper-class women.
Lapis Lazuli induces gravity, maturity and serious conduct.
It signifies royalty and majesty. In the past, kings and nobles would connect to it. It encourages one to speak the truth, reminding us that this is the most correct way.
It soothes feelings of despair and gives one motivation to make changes in life.
Lapis Lazuli provides overall reinforcement for the skeleton and activates the thyroid gland in a state of slow activity.
It helps deal with eye, ear and throat problems, strengthens the immune system and balances the yin and yang.
These meanings belong to the realm of belief and symbolism. They can give jewellery personal significance, but they are not proven gemological properties or a promise of healing, protection or a change in health.
Your lapis, in a piece created for you
At TzurGems Jewelry & Gemstones, Guy's gemological knowledge and the craftsmanship of Rafael, an artisan goldsmith, come together in jewellery designed around the stone and the person who will wear it.