Lazurite stone

Lazurite is a deep blue silicate mineral that is the primary component of the famous gemstone lapis lazuli, prized for its striking color and historical significance. It has been cherished for millennia as a gemstone, pigment source, and decorative material.

Key Characteristics:

1. Appearance:
   • Color: Ranges from vivid royal blue to lighter shades, often with white streaks (calcite) or golden flecks (pyrite).
   • Texture: Usually opaque with a vitreous to dull luster.
2. Composition:
   • A feldspathoid silicate mineral containing sulfur, sodium, and aluminum.
   • Formula: (Na,Ca)₈[AlSiO₄]₆(S,SO₄,Cl)₂.
3. Formation:
   • Found in metamorphic rocks, especially in limestone deposits that have been altered by contact with magma.
   • Notable sources include Afghanistan, Russia, and Chile.
4. Historical and Cultural Significance:
   • Used since ancient times in jewelry, carvings, and as a pigment for ultramarine paint (especially during the Renaissance).
   • Associated with royalty, spirituality, and creativity in various cultures.
5. Uses:
   • Jewelry: Often cut into cabochons, beads, or inlays for necklaces, bracelets, and rings.
   • Pigment: Historically ground into powder for the creation of the ultramarine pigment in art.
   • Decorative Items: Sculptures, inlays, and ornamental objects.
6. Hardness and Care:
   • Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones.
   • Care Tips:
     • Avoid exposure to acids, harsh chemicals, and prolonged water immersion.
     • Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and avoid ultrasonic cleaners.

Would you like details about lapis lazuli jewelry, symbolism, or crafting with lazurite?