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Lazulite Gemstone: Properties, Meanings, Value & More

天青石寶石：特性、含義、價值等

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Lazulite is a rare mineral and stunning azure-blue gemstone. While it’s a fairly abundant mineral, well-formed crystals occur in only a few pockets of the world.

In this guide, we’re covering all of lazulite’s properties, origins, meanings, value, and more. Let’s jump right in!

About Lazulite Stone

There are a few theories about how this semi-precious gemstone got its name.

Most sources agree lazulite’s name derives from the German word for ‘blue stone’ and the Arabic word for ‘heaven,’ alluding to the gem’s distinct blue hues.

Some people refer to lazulite as “azure spar” or “blue phosphate,” but the mineral doesn’t have a lengthy roster of trade names like some other gems.

As far as astrology, many believe lazulite is an especially supportive stone for the Gemini and Sagittarius signs — despite it not being a traditional zodiac stone.

Lazulite is also the official gemstone for Yukon (Canada), honoring its historical and geological significance to the region — but more on that in a bit.

Next up: lazulite’s mineral properties.

Pictured above: Quartz gemstone with lazulite and lasnierite inclusions

Lazulite Specifications & Characteristics

Some people may refer to lazulite as lazulite-quartz, but this isn’t entirely accurate. Both minerals tend to occur in the same rock formations and share similar crystal habits and colors, leading many to think that lazulite is a quartz.

However, unlike quartz which is a silicate, lazulite is a phosphate mineral.

Characterized by its deep blue color, lazulite isn’t just aesthetically pleasing — it also has some interesting properties.

For example, it’s piezoelectric, meaning it can produce an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress. This makes lazulite useful in electronics like microphones or sensors.

Here’s an overview of lazulite’s mineral traits:

• Chemical formula: MgAl2(PO4)2(OH)2

• Composition: Magnesium - Aluminum - Phosphorus - Hydrogen - Oxygen

• Mohs hardness: 5 to 6

• Color: Blue, bluish-green, light blue, black-blue

• Crystal structure: Monoclinic

• Luster: Vitreous (Glassy)

• Transparency: Transparent to translucent

• Refractive index: 1.61 to 1.65

• Density: 3 to 3.2

• Cleavage: Indistinct

• Fracture: Irregular/Uneven, Splintery

• Tenacity: Brittle

• Streak: White

• Luminescence: Non-fluorescent

• Pleochroism: Present, often strong; blue to colorless

Although lazulite’s name has confused some, the mineral has no connection to the similarly-named lazurite (the main ingredient in lapis lazuli).

In fact, many people think lazulite is the same as lapis lazuli; however, they’re chemically and geologically different.

Pictured above: Lapis lazuli cabochon

Lazulite vs. Lapis Lazuli

So what is the difference between lazulite and lazurite?

Lazulite is a rare phosphate mineral composed of magnesium, iron, aluminum, and phosphate.

Lapis lazuli, on the other hand, is composed of several minerals, including lazurite, which gives the stone the same uniquely-blue color as lazurite. It also contains calcite, pyrite, and sodalite.

Additionally, lapis lazuli has a more limited geographical distribution and is a much more widely recognized gem, whereas lazulite is a rarer, less common mineral.

Historically, what are some fun facts about lazulite?

Lazulite History

German chemist Martin H. Klaproth discovered lazulite in Styria, Austria, in 1795. Since his discovery, people have uncovered lazulite veins all over the world.

Earlier, we mentioned that lazulite is Yukon's official gemstone — do you want to know why?

Yukon’s rich mineral deposits have been mined for centuries by Indigenous peoples and European settlers. Lazulite was one of the first minerals discovered in the area and was prized for its unique beauty and spiritual properties.

In 1976, the Yukon Territorial Council gave lazulite its designation to celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage and natural resources.

North American indigenous peoples also prized lazulite for its spiritual and healing properties. They believed lazulite could ward off evil spirits, promote inner peace, and enhance one's connection to the natural world.

With that, let’s explore lazulite’s metaphysical properties.

Lazulite Healing Properties

Often dubbed the “Stone of Heaven” because of its color and etymology, many believe lazulite is a powerful healing stone for enhancing your physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Physically, what is lazulite good for?

Physical Healing

Lazulite is a popular mineral for holistic healing, as it’s associated with internal balance.

It may alleviate ailments related to the pineal gland, liver, headaches, stress, endocrine issues, immune system weakness, and addiction.

Emotional Healing

Longing for a zen state of mind?

Emotionally, lazulite is believed to ease your worries, stimulate insight, and envelop you in feelings of serenity.

Chakra Healing

What is the spiritual meaning of lazulite?

This gem is a powerful chakra stone for balancing the third eye (or Ajna) chakra. This energy point is associated with intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness.

Crystal healers believe that lazulite strengthens your psychic and intuitive abilities, steadying your cosmic alignment and enhancing your connection to the divine.

Moving on, how much is lazulite worth? That depends on grading!

Lazulite Gemstone Properties

Due to the scarcity of gem-quality specimens, lazulite isn’t commercially traded as much as other gems. As a result, grading and valuation can vary depending on the market and buyer.

That said, lazulite is typically graded based on the same industry-standard characteristics: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight.

Color

Lazulite is best known for its deep blue to blue-violet color, with shades ranging from pale blue to dark navy blue. Green or gray hues can also appear but are generally considered less desirable.

The mineral’s color variations result from the presence of iron, magnesium, and aluminum within its crystal structure.

As far as color, what lazulite stone is most valuable? Generally, specimens that are deep blue or blue-violet, with minimal green or gray tints, tend to be the most valuable,

Cut

While lazulite is typically opaque or sub-translucent, some transparent granular material can be cut into cabochons.

Less commonly, lazulite can be faceted into various gemstone shapes with care.

However, due to its rarity and small size, lazulite isn’t usually used as a gemstone, so it’s often sold as a rough mineral specimen (rather than cut and polished gems).

Clarity

Common inclusions of lazulite include healed fractures, feathers, and single/two-phase liquid and gas inclusions. Even small gems tend to be highly included, thus making lazulites susceptible to fracturing during cutting.

Since these inclusions are part of the lazulite’s natural formation, they’re typically not detrimental to its beauty or value.

Carat Weight

As mentioned, gem-quality lazulite is rare, so gemstone sizes vary widely.

Cabochons are generally cut from small gem-quality lazulite specimens, typically weighing less than 1 carat.

Faceted gems usually range between 0.5 to 2 carats. Anything larger, especially clean, is extremely rare and valuable.

Rough lazulite varies in size, ranging from small chunks to large slabs. Large, dense specimens will usually fetch higher prices.

Image credit: Rob Lavinsky, iRocks.com – CC-BY-SA-3.0

Lazulite Formation & Sources

Lazulite typically forms in high-grade metamorphic rocks (such as gneiss or schist). It can also occur in some granites or pegmatites.

The mineral forms through the crystallization of phosphorus, aluminum, magnesium, iron, and other elements in high-temperature and high-pressure conditions.

Globally, where is lazulite found?

Mining Locations

Even though lazulite occurs worldwide, it’s a relatively rare mineral because it only forms in specific geological environments. It also requires specific chemical and mineralogical conditions that aren’t common.

Notable localities include:

• Austria

• Bolivia

• Brazil

• Canada

• Germany

• Madagascar

• Myanmar

• Sweden

• Switzerland

• Russia

• United States (CA, GA, NH, SD)

Is lazulite valuable? Let’s find out.

Lazulite Price & Value

Since lazulite isn’t widely used as a gem, its relative rarity makes sourcing jewelry-quality specimens a challenge. It also makes lazulite jewelry relatively expensive.

Low-quality pieces can start at around $100, with higher-quality pieces reaching several thousand dollars or more.

Faceted lazulite is also extremely rare, from around $50 to $100 for under a carat. Larger, higher-quality stones can run you up to several hundred dollars or more per carat.

Cabochons don’t fall far behind — they sell for around $50 to $100 per carat. You can find low-quality stones for about $20 per carat, while higher-quality ones can reach up to several hundred dollars.

The cost of rough lazulite also varies. Small to medium-sized specimens may range from around $10 to $50 per carat, while larger, high-quality specimens can cost up to several thousand dollars.

After splurging on lazulite, you’ll want to learn how to care for your gemstone.

Lazulite Care and Maintenance

Lazulite isn’t considered a toxic mineral, but you should still handle it carefully.

To clean lazulite, use a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water, then dry it gently with a soft cloth.

Where should I put my lazulite? Store your new gem in a soft pouch separately from harder stones and materials to preserve it.

Avoid exposing your lazulite to:

• Harsh chemicals or detergents

• Ultrasonic or steam cleaners

• Extreme temperatures

• Prolonged sun exposure

Live Lighter with Lazulite!

In the world of blue gems, lazulite is an understated beauty deserving of a spot in any crystal collection.

From its soul-soothing and peace-inducing energy to its stunning blue hues and unique crystal formations — lazulite is a gem that’s sure to impress.

Buy lazulite and other vibrant gemstones today!