Lapis Lazuli
Lapis is a beautiful rock; an aggregate of several minerals, mainly lazurite, calcite, and pyrite.
BUYER'S GUIDE
The finest lapis has uniform bodycolor, free of visible pyrite and calcite. Lapis often contains varying amounts of whitish calcite matrix—the host rock—or flecks or veins of yellow pyrite, or both.
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What To Look For
Color is the most important quality factor for lapis lazuli
Variously described as indigo, royal, midnight, or marine blue, lapis lazuli’s signature hue is slightly greenish blue to violetish blue, medium to dark in tone, and highly saturated. In its most-prized form, lapis lazuli has no visible calcite, although it might have gold-colored pyrite flecks.
Clarity refers to lapis lazuli’s surface appearance
If the pyrite flecks are small and sprinkled attractively throughout the gem, their presence doesn’t necessarily lower lapis lazuli’s value. The lowest-quality lapis looks dull and green, the result of an excess of pyrite. Lapis with white calcite streaks is less valuable.
Cut possibilities include cabochons, beads, and carvings
Lapis lazuli is often cut into cabochons, beads, and tablets. The gem has also been popular with carvers for centuries.
Carat weights for lapis span a wide range
This lapis lazuli specimen from Afghanistan, “The Owl,” weighs about 1 kilogram. Lapis is found in all sizes and is often cut into calibrated sizes or beads.
Lapis Lazuli Quality Factors: The Comprehensive Guide
Questions & Answers
- Q
Does GIA grade lapis lazuli?
AGIA evaluates lapis lazuli but does not grade it. A GIA Colored Stone Identification Report assesses the characteristics of any polished, rough, mounted or loose material (weight, measurements, shape, cutting style and color); identifies whether it is natural or laboratory-grown; and names any detectable treatments.
- Q
Is lapis lazuli enhanced?
ALapis lazuli might be dyed to improve its color and conceal any calcite inclusions. Lapis that hasn’t been dyed might be impregnated with wax or oil to improve color and luster. These treatments have only fair stability, and a gemologist can detect them.
- Q
What is the best color of lapis lazuli?
AThe most prized lapis lazuli colors are intense medium to dark blue or violetish blue.
- Q
Is lapis lazuli imitated?
AGlass, plastic, and ceramic materials have all been used as lapis imitations.
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Questions & Answers
CARING FOR YOUR LAPIS LAZULI
Keep your alexandrite beautiful by following simple care and cleaning guidelines.
DURABILITY
CARE AND CLEANING
TREATMENT
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The Complete Guide on Caring for your Lapis lazuli
