It is blue rock made up of several different minerals. They are Lazulite, sodalite, hauyne, calcite and pyrite. Color and the composition can vary and it is intense dark blue with white calcite miner patches and brassy yellow pyrite. This is the best quality.

Usually found as boulders or within lime stones. Best quality is found in Afghanistan. In ancient Egypt lapis lazuli were used for King Tutankhamen’s mask. Ancient people believed that lapis lazuli will protect the wearer from evil.

Gilson also produced imitation lapis lazuli using very similar composition to natural. When cutting and polishing, this gemstone can be cut as Cabochon, cameo and polished slabs.