How do I identify Lazurite?

Lazurite can be identified by its hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale, ultramarine color, Resinous luster, Isometric crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Lazurite?

Lazurite typically appears in ultramarine, midnight blue, bluish green, green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Lazurite?

Lazurite has a hardness of 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Lazurite

A variety of Sodalite Group

Uncommon

What is Lazurite?

The appearance of lazurite is a unique find; this is perhaps one of the bluest of all blue minerals. Its hue is so unique that it has been awarded its very own name: ultramarine. Lazurite is most often found in Afganistan; however, small bands of this unforgettable mineral have been spotted in Russia and parts of the United States.

Etymology & Origins

The name is from the Persian lajvard for blue.

Uses & Applications

Lazurite dates back to ancient Egypt, where it had the regal role as the prominent blue pigment used for decorating pharaoh's coffins. It is the basis for lapis lazuli, a beautiful gemstone that is highly desired by collectors, and the original ultramarine pigment for paint, which was prized above gold at one point.

Healing Properties

When used on the Third Eye chakra ,lazurite is said to promote visions and help the person develop their psychic abilities. It is often used to enhance memory and may be helpful when studying or working. It can be used during meditation to help uncover past memories, expand awareness, and allow for spiritual growth. It is considered a protective stone that will help with self-acceptance issues.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.5
Optical Character: Isotropic

Lazurite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Lazurite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Lazurite Localities Map

See where Lazurite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

The Meaning

Lazurite is the main mineral in lapis lazuli, which features in what is believed to be one of the oldest legends. The myth is that the Sumerian goddess of love, Inanna, travelled down to the underworld and back again around 4000 BCE, and with her, she took a rod and a lapis lazuli necklace.

Associated Chakras

Third Eye

Key Characteristics

Composition of Lazurite

Lazurite and hauyne seem to have the same structure and both are sulfate-dominant minerals. Lazurite is a pigment (opalescent) and has a bright blue streak (especially as a component of the semiprecious stone lapis lazuli). Many hauynes have a white or pale blue streak and are translucent. The difference might be a consequence of the redox state (sulfate to sulfide ratio).