LAPIS LAZULI: EARTH’S BEST BLUES

NEWS: Lapis lazuli is a vividly blue metamorphic rock used as a semi-precious gemstone

Composition

• Lazurite (25-40%)àThe primary mineral responsible for the rock’s deep-blue colorà blueness depends on the sulphur content and structure in lazurite.
• CalciteàReduces the intensity of the blueness.
• Pyrite: Adds golden sparkles to the rock, often mistaken for gold.
• Minor quantities of minerals like diopside and sodalite are also present.

Global Locations of Lapis Lazuli

• Afghanistanàancient mines in the Badakhshan region.
• Chile, Russia, and the US: Also known to produce lapis lazuli, though the quality varies.

Historical Use in India and Beyond

• Tradersà imported lapis lazuli from Afghanistan àas early as 1000 BCE.
• Archaeologistsà found lapis lazuli ornaments in Indus Valley Civilization sites àMohenjo-daro and Harappa.
• Egyptians used lapis lazuli àfor jewelry and eye shadow powder= royalty and divinity.
• European Renaissanceàlapis lazuli was ground to produce ultramarine, a rare and expensive blue pigment used in famous paintings.