The lapis lazuli stone is a deep blue gem that typically has specks of gold from pyrite and white from calcite. The gem is actually a rock mostly made up of the mineral lazurite, a sodalite variety.
Since ancient times, the lapis stone has been used for jewelry, decor, and pigments. You’ll see similar uses today, along with lapis lazuli for sale as a September birthstone.
FAQs
What are the main characteristics of lapis lazuli stones?
Lapis stones have a characteristic blue hue from the sulfur component of their main component lazurite. White streaks or undertones come from calcite inclusions, while green undertones come from pyrite.
Most lapis stones have speckles of pyrite and streaks of calcite. The gem is semi-translucent to opaque with a hardness ranging from 3 to 6.5. Genuine lapis lazuli for sale should also have a light blue streak.
What are the common uses of the lapis stone?
Lapis lazuli is commonly faceted or cut en cabochon to use in jewelry or crystal healing. They’re also used for decor, including mosaics and carvings. Historically, artists would seek out lapis lazuli for sale to crush into powder for making ultramarine blue pigment.
What does lapis lazuli symbolize?
The lapis lazuli stone has symbolized heaven, truth, and celestial wisdom since ancient times. It also represents expression, self-awareness, regality, friendship, and bravery.
What is the difference between a high-quality and low-quality lapis lazuli stone?
A high-quality lapis stone has a rich, slightly violet blue color with no visible calcite and often a speckling of shiny gold pyrite flecks. These high-quality stones can be polished to a smoosh, lustrous finish. These lapis lazuli prices can be $14 to $200 per carat.
A low-quality lapis lazuli stone has a dull, greenish color and lots of white calcite streaks.
What color lapis stone is most valuable?
The most valuable color of a lapis lazuli for sale is a uniform shade of blue to violet-blue with a deep tone.
What is the difference between natural lapis lazuli for sale and synthetic versions?
A synthetic lapis lazuli for sale — man-made to have virtually the same physical and chemical properties as natural lapis — usually has a more uniform color, less color depth, and fewer, less scattered pyrite inclusions or no pyrite inclusions at all.
Are lapis lazuli stones treated?
Sometimes. The most common lapis stone treatment is dye, used to mask white calcite inclusions, often sealed with plastic or wax. Wax or oil may also be used to impregnate a lapis stone, enhancing its luster and hue. Any treatment will lower the lapis lazuli price, so the seller should disclose these enhancements on their lapis lazuli for sale.
How do I care for lapis lazuli stone jewelry?
The hardness of a lapis lazuli stone is mid-range at the highest, so opt for jewelry with protective settings like a bezel setting. If the lapis stone has been treated, keep it away from alcohol, acetone, heat, or other solvents.
Clean your lapis lazuli stone with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth. You can add lukewarm water and mild soap if necessary. Avoid mechanical systems like ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
Where can I find lapis lazuli for sale?
You can find all kinds of high-quality lapis lazuli for sale here at Gem Rock Auctions, from carvings and cabochons to faceted lapis stones. You can purchase a lapis lazuli stone right away on Buy It Now listings, or find even more competitive lapis lazuli prices on auction listings.
All of our sellers have been screened through a rigorous vetting process of our Verified Sellers Program. Our Gemstone Sheriff Program also ensures ongoing quality control, allowing you to request a free audit on any lapis lazuli for sale to have a third-party expert gemologist review the listing for accuracy.
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