GEMSTONE SPECIES - INORGANIC

Lapis Lazuli is a deep, celestial dark blue metamorphic rock, prized since antiquity for its intense colour and flecks of golden pyrite. It has been used for thousands of years in jewelry, carvings, and pigment (ultramarine), especially in ancient Egyptian art.

Key Facts:
--> Colour Deep royal to midnight blue, often with gold-colored pyrite inclusions
--> Opaque
--> Often untreated, though some lower grades may be dyed or waxed: 

--> Dull to vitreous Luster
--> Best specimens have a rich blue color with minimal calcite and fine pyrite sparkles

Light Blue Lapis Lazuli is a paler variation of traditional lapis, characterized by a softer sky to powder blue colour, often mixed with more visible white calcite streaks and fewer golden pyrite flecks. While not as highly valued as the deep blue variety.
Key Facts: 
--> Colour Light to sky blue, often mottled with white (calcite) and minor gold (pyrite)
--> Opaque
--> Dull to silky Luster: 
--> Usually natural, though may be waxed or lightly dyed to enhance colour
--> Considered more common and affordable than deep blue lapis 

 Lapis Lazuli with pyrite flecks is the most prized variety of lapis, featuring a deep royal blue body colour beautifully accented with golden specks of pyrite, resembling a starry night sky. The presence of pyrite not only adds visual intrigue but also confirms the stone’s natural authenticity and high quality.
Key Facts: 
--> Colour Intense deep blue with metallic gold specks
--> Opaque
-->  Vitreous to silky Luster:
--> The pyrite inclusions are natural and not flaws, but a desirable feature
--> Highly valued for its rich colour and celestial appearance