Metamorphic rock prized as a gemstone for its intense blue color. Composed primarily of lazurite with calcite and pyrite inclusions. Color: Deep blue with gold pyrite flecks. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Streak: Light blue. Cleavage: None. Hardness: 5-5.5. Transparency: Opaque. Crystal system: Isometric rock. Chemical formula: Complex lazurite + calcite + pyrite. Specific gravity: 2.7-2.9. Formation: Forms by contact metamorphism of impure limestone with lazurite as the primary blue mineral. Common geological settings: Afghanistan Badakhshan , Chile, Russia, Myanmar; found in metamorphosed limestone. Common look-alikes and related entries: Sodalite, Azurite, Dumortierite.
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These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.
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GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-03-30T14:37:39.857097+00:00
Review status
Published; not independently peer-reviewed
IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.
Metamorphic rock prized as a gemstone for its intense blue color. Composed primarily of lazurite with calcite and pyrite inclusions.
How can you identify Lapis Lazuli?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Deep blue with gold pyrite flecks; lustre: Vitreous to greasy; streak: Light blue; Mohs hardness: 5-5.5; cleavage: None; crystal system: Isometric rock; transparency: Opaque. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Lapis Lazuli form?
Forms by contact metamorphism of impure limestone with lazurite as the primary blue mineral.
Where is Lapis Lazuli commonly found?
Afghanistan Badakhshan , Chile, Russia, Myanmar; found in metamorphosed limestone.
What is Lapis Lazuli commonly confused with?
Lapis Lazuli may be confused with Sodalite, Azurite, Dumortierite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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