# Lapis lazuli

> Lapis lazuli is a deep blue rock with golden flecks of pyrite, used since ancient Egypt; it is soft (5-5.5) and breaks easily.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/lapis-lazuli/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-09-10
- Updated: 2026-09-10
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/lapislazuli/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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Lapis lazuli is a deep blue rock with golden flecks of pyrite. The ancient Egyptians and Sumerians valued it more than gold, and the pigment ultramarine was made from it.

## Properties

- **Composition:** a rock made of lazurite (the blue), calcite and pyrite (the golden flecks)
- **Hardness:** between 5 and 5.5 on the Mohs scale.
- **Color:** intense blue, sometimes with white veins of calcite.
- **Origins:** Afghanistan (Badakhshan) is the historic source; also Chile, Russia and Pakistan.
- **Sensitivity:** it is porous and sensitive to acids.

## Uses in jewelry

- Beads, cabochons and carved pieces.
- Ancient Egyptian jewelry (see [ancient Egyptian jewelry](https://www.711grados.com/en/ancient-egyptian-jewelry/)).
- Earrings, pendants and rings.

## Pros and cons

### Advantages

- Unique, deep color.
- Long history and meaning.
- Affordable.

### Limitations

- It is soft and scratches.
- It is damaged by acids and prolonged water.
- Dyed imitations exist.

## Care and cleaning

- Clean with a soft cloth.
- Avoid prolonged water, perfume and acids.
- Store it apart from other jewelry.

## See also

- [Jewelry and amulets of ancient Egypt](https://www.711grados.com/en/ancient-egyptian-jewelry/)
- [Turquoise](https://www.711grados.com/en/turquoise/)