Lapis Lazuli

This unusual blue gem is catually classed as a rock as it made up of a variety of minerals which usually form approximately 25-40% of the stone e.g. calcite, pyrite, hauyne and, lazurite. Sodalite is a major component of Lapis Lazuli, and the gemstones are often confused… so be careful! (sodalite however does not usually contain flecks of pyrite and has a lower specific gravity than lapis lazuli). It is an opaque stone with a hardness of 5 – 6 on the Mohs’ scale and can have a varying crystal structure

It is known for its intense blue colour known as ‘ultramarine’ and would be a perfect engagement ring, wedding ring or eternity ring choice for any future fiancés that are fans of blue! It was a particular favourite of the Ancient Egyptians & Sumerians. In fact it was so revered that its name translated from the Arabic is ‘heaven stone’ or ‘sky stone’, and it was even used by Queen Cleopatra as an eye shadow! It was also very popular with Russian furnishing companies. For a truly stunning example, get yourself to Belton House in Lincolnshire where there is a beautiful Afghan lapis lazuli cabinet on display. It is believed to protect its wearer from evil as well as have healing powers and the Buddhists believe it will bring peace-of-mind, and the Ancient Romans believe it was an aphrodisiac!

It tends to be found as metamorphic boulders or within limestone.

In terms of value the stones with less pyrite and calcite patches and an intense purplish blue colour are considered to be most highly prized. Of course for those Egyptologists out there, what better way to honour the ancients with a tip-of-the-hat to the pharaohs with a lapis lazuli engagement ring? The best quality stones are found in Afghanistan where they have been mined for more than 6,000 years (which is of course where the stones that decorated King Tutankhamen’s burial mask). Pale blue varieties can be sourced from the former USSR, Chile and Canada, whereas darker varieties are found in the USA. Mottled matrix stones can also be sourced which have a high concentration of white calcite running through them.

Imitations of this gemstone have been made from dyed jasper, paste with inclusions of copper, and there are even reconstructed stones available on the market. A synthetic version was created in the 1950s using a grainy synthetic blue spinel which was coloured by cobalt oxide, these were much harder than the natural stone so could be easily distinguished. French manufacturer Pierre Gilson has also produced a synthetic version of the gemstone, this is more porous and has a lower specific gravity than a real gemstone however, and most jewellers believe it to be too soft to be practical for use. Most imitations can be spotted by either a lack of pyrite inclusions, a difference in texture or softness or even by visible pockets of dye!

These stones are sensitive to pressure and high temperatures so care should be taken to avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners and chemicals.

Mining tends to be done on a small scale with handheld tools and use of dynamite in shaft mines.

It can be sourced in cabochon cuts, polished slabs, beads from around 2mm in size and cameo formed pieces and often has textures applied to its surface. Natural stones are often treated with dyes, wax, oils or polymer coatings, and there are even reports of the stone being heat-treated to improve its colour, so it can be difficult to be sure you are looking at a genuine lapis stone.