Where is Lapis Lazuli found?
Lapis Lazuli (a rock composed primarily of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite)
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Open the appLapis Lazuli occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Lapis Lazuli
Sar-e-Sang, Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan
The most historically significant and primary source of high-quality Lapis Lazuli for over 6,000 years. Occurs in crystalline marble within the Kokcha River valley.
Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russia
Significant deposits found in the Malo-Bystrinskoye deposit, occurring in marbles and skarns.
Ovalle, Coquimbo Region, Chile
Deposits found in the Andes Mountains, often associated with copper deposits, occurring in metamorphosed limestones.
Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada
More recently discovered deposits, also associated with metamorphosed carbonate rocks.
Colorado, USA
Minor occurrences, notably in the Italian Mountain area, associated with contact metamorphic zones.
Collecting tips
- Geological Context. Focus on areas with known contact metamorphic zones, particularly where limestone or marble has been intruded by silica-poor igneous rocks. Look for skarn-like environments.
- Associated Minerals. Lapis Lazuli is often found with other metamorphic minerals such as diopside, forsterite, mica, and sometimes graphite. The presence of white calcite and golden pyrite is a key indicator.
- Color and Luster. Look for intense blue rocks with a dull to greasy luster. The characteristic white streaks of calcite and metallic golden flecks of pyrite are crucial for identification.
- Hardness Test. Lapis Lazuli is relatively soft (Mohs 5-5.5). It can be scratched by a steel file but will scratch glass. This helps differentiate it from harder blue minerals.
- Acid Test (Caution). A small drop of dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl) will cause a slight effervescence on the calcite component, and a distinct rotten egg smell (H2S) may be produced from the lazurite due to its sulfur content. *Perform this test with extreme caution and proper ventilation, and only on a small, inconspicuous area.*
Quick Check
- Color:
- Deep blue with white and golden flecks
- Luster:
- Dull to greasy
- Streak:
- Light blue to white
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