Lapis lazuli has a history which stretches back to 5000 BC. It was highly prized by the pharaohs of ancient Egypt, as can be seen by its prominent use in many of the treasures recovered from pharaonic tombs. It is still extremely popular today. The best quality lapis lazuli is considered to be the one, which is dark blue in color with slight patches white calcite and brassy yellow pyrite. Lapis lazuli is made of several minerals, which includes lazurite, sodalite, hauyne, calcite and pyrite. With the varying composition of these minerals the color of lapis lazuli also varies.

Locations:

The top quality lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan. Along-with Afghanistan, lapis lazuli from Argentina is also considered to be of high quality. Pale blue variety comes from the former USSR and Chile. Specimens from USA are darker in shade whereas the lapis lazuli of Canada is light blue.

Chemical Composition: Sulphur containing Sodium Aluminum Silicate
Crystal Structure: Various
Hardness: 5.5
Specific Gravity: 2.80
Refractive Index: About 1.50
Colors: Pale blue to deep blue.
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Astrological Relevance:

Lapis lazuli is considered to be one of the birthstones for the month of December, which covers two zodiac signs: Sagittarius (November 21 To December 21) and Capricorn (December 21 To January 21).