Description
Deep blue high grade lapis lazuli & pyrite cabochon. This cabochon is natural, no dyes or treatments. The back is not polished to a shine.
Size: 30 x 25 x 4 mm. 8 grams.
This beautiful blue rock is lapis lazuli (today often called lapis), composed of finely interspersed crystals of the mineral lazurite with calcite or marble and pyrite. A complex set of geologic conditions brought these minerals together to form this beautiful rock, which was used by the ancient Egyptians to adorn their most precious treasures. This piece is from Sar-e-Sang, the oldest continuously operated mine on the planet, and the source of the lapis that was used by the Egyptians over two thousand years ago.
From Badakhshan, Afghanistan