Blue Gem Stone Lapis Lazuli

Introduction to the meaning and uses of lapis lazuli.

Blue gem stone lapis lazuli.

Lapis lazuli artifacts. Lapis lazuli also known simply as lapis is a blue metamorphic rock that has been used by people as a gemstone sculpting material pigment and ornamental material for thousands of years high quality lapis lazuli can be a costly gem. Lapis lazuli is one of the most sought after stones in use since man s history began. It may occur in multi kilogram sized pieces but top grade lapis lazuli of even 10 to 20 carats cut is rare.

Lapis lazuli is an affordable gemstone but truly fine lapis lazuli stones are still quite rare. What price is lapis lazuli. Lapis lazuli is an opaque gemstone which is primarily blue but with white or golden streaks caused by the presence of other minerals. It is a universal symbol of wisdom and truth.

The most desirable specimens have a rich solid blue color and perhaps a few reflective pieces of gold pyrite. What is lapis lazuli. Lower grades may go for 1 per carat or lower while the higher grades may reach 100 to 150 per carat. As early as the 7th millennium bce lapis lazuli was mined in the sar i sang mines in shortugai and in other mines in badakhshan province in northeast afghanistan.

Its deep celestial blue remains the symbol of royalty and honor gods and power spirit and vision. Lapis lazuli is chiefly composed of the mineral lazurite with additional other minerals including white calcite and sparkling specks of. Lapis lazuli ˈ l æ p ɪ s ˈ l æ zj ʊ l i l aɪ or lapis for short is a deep blue metamorphic rock used as a semi precious stone that has been prized since antiquity for its intense color.