What's That Rock?Lapis lazuli
A deep blue rock made mostly of lazurite, with white calcite patches and golden pyrite flecks. It was the source of the pigment ultramarine.
How to identify Lapis lazuli
- Deep blue with scattered golden pyrite specks
- White patches of calcite are normal
- Softer than quartz: does not scratch glass
Often confused with
- Sodaliteno pyrite, white veins
- Dyed jasper'Swiss lapis'
- Blue glass with gold flakes
Real or fake?
- Dyed jasper can leave blue dye on a damp cotton swab; natural lapis does not
- Evenly distributed shiny gold flecks that look like glitter point to glass
Is Lapis lazuli valuable?
Moderate; deep blue with few white patches costs more.
Typical retail prices
Tumbled stone$4–12each
Rough$30–150per pound
Cut gemstone$1–15per carat
Top Afghan material with fine pyrite costs more.
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Color: deep, even royal blue with fine gold pyrite flecks is the best grade
- White calcite patches lower the price, and heavy pyrite can too
- Dyed material: dyed jasper or howlite sold as lapis is common, and 'reconstructed' lapis exists
- Origin: Afghan Sar-e-Sang is the benchmark
- Size and cut: large clean carvings and beads cost more
Uses
- Jewelry, carvings and inlay
- Historic pigment
Care
Avoid acids, chemicals and long water exposure. Wipe with a damp cloth.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026