Lapis Lazuli has been mined in the mountains of Afghanistan for more than 6,000 years. In fact, these mountains are home to the world's oldest known commercial gemstone mines. Lapis Lazuli's vivid blue was once prized as much as sapphire and was ground to produce blue dye long before synthetic alternatives existed.
Lapis Lazuli is technically a rock composed of several minerals — lazurite, pyrite, and calcite — present in varying amounts. Lazurite produces the characteristic blue color, calcite creates white veining, and pyrite appears as gold flecks. The highest quality Lapis Lazuli displays a pure, vivid royal blue with little to no calcite or pyrite present.
Features
- High quality medium-dark to dark blue coloration
- No calcite and very little pyrite present — consistent, clean color throughout
- Round cabochon cut
- Treatment: None
- A great alternative for the December birthstone
- Clean with warm, soapy water only — avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners
Specifications
| Stone Type |
Genuine Lapis Lazuli |
| Cut |
Round Cabochon |
| Quality |
High Quality — medium-dark to dark blue, no calcite, very little pyrite |
| Treatment |
None |
| Care |
Warm, soapy water only; no ultrasonic or steam cleaning |
Available Options
| Part # |
Size |
| 920-G40 |
4mm |
| 920-G50 |
5mm |
| 920-G60 |
6mm |
| 920-G80 |
8mm |
| 920-G100 |
10mm |
| 920-G120 |
12mm |