Lapis Lazuli: Exploring Its Crystal Properties, Origins, and Uses

The lapis lazuli crystal is a treasured material, historically used in magnificent artworks, from pharaohs' coffins to the Sistine Chapel. It is famously present in King Tut's burial items and is also known for its association with "cosmic wisdom".

In powdered form, it produced the richest blue—ultramarine—which was so costly that even Michelangelo couldn't afford it. Lapis lazuli's rarity and striking blue hue, along with its role in creating ultramarine pigment, made it one of the most valuable substances in history.

While diamonds and rubies may be highly valued today, for centuries, lapis lazuli was the gemstone that dominated both the heavens and the oceans.

What Is a Lapis Lazuli Crystal?

"Lapis lazuli is actually a rock, and many people are unaware of this," explains McKenzie Santimer, the manager of the Gemological Institute of America's (GIA) Museum and exhibit designer.

As a rock, lapis lazuli consists of a mixture of at least three minerals: lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. The lazurite gives it its iconic blue hue, calcite creates the white veins, and pyrite adds the glittering, gold-like accents.

The name originates from the Latin word for stone, "lapis", while "lazuli" comes from the Persian and Arabic terms for the place where the stone was mined. The Persian word "lāzhward" evolved into the Arabic "(al-) lazward", and the Latin became "lazulum". These terms eventually influenced words for blue in languages such as Spanish and Italian.

This rich blue gemstone holds a 5.5 rating on the Mohs Hardness Scale, comparable to the hardness of window glass. (For reference, diamonds are the hardest at a 10, while talc is the softest with a 1.)

This means that lapis lazuli crystals are somewhat porous and relatively soft, though still durable. Their properties allow for easy carving, but they can also be scratched with ease.

Where Does the Lapis Lazuli Crystal Come From?

Afghanistan is considered the legendary origin of lapis lazuli, as explained by Santimer. In particular, the Badakhshan region is renowned for producing the finest lapis lazuli.

According to the New World Encyclopedia, ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, and Babylonians imported lapis lazuli from these mines, possibly the oldest in the world. Lapis lazuli was frequently used in ancient Egypt to embellish items like pharaohs' masks, scarabs, and beads, and it was a significant feature in King Tutankhamun's two coffins.

Santimer mentions that historically, and even today, the most coveted lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan. However, in contrast to the ancient world, modern sources also include Russia, China, and Chile. The American Gem Trade Association also highlights Myanmar, where lapis lazuli deposits are still being mined.

Why Was Lapis Lazuli Treasured by Ancient Civilizations?

Lapis lazuli captivated with its striking color and was also easy to enhance through polishing and carving, as Santimer points out. "It's one of the oldest gemstones," she adds, predating many other stones that are considered more valuable today.

Ancient civilizations may have linked the color blue with the sky and the heavens, which also symbolized the afterlife. Some believed that lapis lazuli possessed metaphysical properties and was once highly prized and traded because its royal blue color was thought to be divine.

"If this vibrant blue hue came from the gods, it was certainly worth seeking out," says Santimer.

In addition to its use in pharaohs' masks, there are rumors that powdered lapis lazuli was the preferred eyeshadow of Cleopatra.

In the medieval period, ultramarine — a pigment that translates to "beyond the sea" — was considered "more precious than gold," as Ravi Mangla wrote in The Paris Review. Due to its rarity and cost, ultramarine was typically reserved for exclusive commissions or specific sections of artwork, like the Virgin Mary's robes.

Until the 19th century, lapis lazuli was the only source for authentic ultramarine blue. However, in the 1820s, French chemist Jean-Baptiste Guimet created a synthetic version of the genuine lapis lazuli pigment.

Lapis Lazuli Healing Properties

Beyond its stunning appearance, some believe wearing lapis lazuli can support the respiratory and nervous systems. It’s thought to alleviate inflammation, foster healing, and even help identify "the karmic roots of disease," according to Crystals and Holistic Healing.

Although the GIA does not examine or validate the healing properties of gemstones, Santimer offered a word of caution.

"A gemstone is not meant for consumption," she advises. "It should be worn and admired, not eaten."

How Is Lapis Lazuli Used in Modern Times?

Medieval artists incorporated lapis lazuli in creating prized ultramarine paint, but its uses extended far beyond that. For instance, the Greeks applied it to caskets, shrines, and sculptures, while the Chinese carved it into items like game boards, dagger handles, hair combs, and amulets, according to Santimer. Church panels, grand inlays, sculptures, and mosaics were also crafted from lapis lazuli.

These are just a few historical examples, but they remain common uses of the stone today — as sculptures, jewelry, decorative art pieces, and mosaics. You can still purchase lapis lazuli pigments, proving that it’s a timeless favorite.

"There aren't many gemstones in blue, so this one is certainly highly valued," explains Santimer. The most coveted pieces are those with a deeper, more vibrant blue and minimal veining and pyrite. "The finest quality from Afghanistan can be extremely costly."

If you're considering investing in this cherished stone, it’s important to treat it like any other gemstone. Though lapis lazuli appears in various jewelry styles such as rings and beads, remember its softness means it can be damaged with ease.

Santimer advises against wearing lapis lazuli jewelry while performing household chores or engaging in vigorous physical activities. Also, avoid exposing it to solvents. For cleaning, simply use warm water and mild dish soap to keep it in great condition.