Lapis Lazuli is a delicate and porous gemstone that requires gentle cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with plain water or a mild soap solution. Avoid soaking or scrubbing the stone with brushes, as this can scratch or dull its surface. Always wipe gently and dry it immediately with a soft cloth to preserve its natural shine.

This beautiful gemstone is highly sensitive to moisture, chemicals, and acids. Remove your lapis jewellery before swimming, bathing, applying perfume, or using cleaning agents. Continuous exposure to water or harsh substances can fade its deep blue hue and weaken its structure over time.

With a hardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, Lapis Lazuli can easily get scratched. Keep it separately in a soft pouch or padded jewellery box away from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight, as excessive heat and light may alter its vibrant colour.

Because of its porous nature, Lapis Lazuli can absorb natural oils, lotions, or cosmetic residues. Always wear your Lapis jewellery after completing your skincare or makeup routine. This simple habit helps maintain its luster and prevents staining or discolouration.

Although Lapis should not be polished frequently, having it checked annually by a trusted jeweller ensures the setting remains secure. Professional inspection and light cleaning can help maintain its brilliance and extend its longevity without risking damage to the stone.

The most coveted Lapis Lazuli originates from Afghanistan, particularly the Badakhshan mines, which have produced some of the world’s finest stones for centuries. These gemstones are renowned for their deep royal blue color, minimal calcite presence, and delicate golden pyrite flecks. Lapis from Chile and Russia offers a more affordable alternative, though these often display lighter tones, more white streaks, or less intense color saturation compared to Afghan varieties.

Color is the most crucial determinant of Lapis Lazuli’s value. The finest stones exhibit a rich royal or ultramarine blue hue, evenly distributed with minimal white calcite and fine, shimmering pyrite inclusions. Stones that appear pale, patchy, or unnaturally bright due to dyeing are generally of lower quality and carry a reduced price.

Lapis Lazuli is frequently available in larger sizes, but the price per carat increases for stones that maintain consistent quality and vibrant color across the entire surface. Large, flawless cabochons with an even blue tone and high polish are rare and command premium value in the gemstone market.

Unlike transparent gems, Lapis Lazuli is admired for its opaque texture and uniform surface. High-quality specimens display minimal white calcite veins and a balanced distribution of golden pyrite specks, enhancing both visual appeal and value. Stones that appear too cloudy or uneven in texture are considered lower grade.

Lapis Lazuli is most commonly cut into cabochons, beads, and carvings, emphasizing its deep blue luster and natural inclusions. Smooth, symmetrical cuts with well-polished surfaces elevate the stone’s beauty. Additionally, intricately carved or custom-designed pieces further enhance the aesthetic and monetary value of this timeless gem.

Many low-grade or imitation Lapis Lazuli stones are artificially dyed to mimic the rich royal blue of genuine ones. These fakes often appear overly vibrant or may even bleed colour when exposed to water. Authentic Lapis Lazuli displays natural depth in its blue hue, along with subtle variations and golden pyrite flecks — never uniform or overly bright.

Before making a purchase, ensure the gemstone is accompanied by a gemological lab certificate from trusted institutions such as IGI or GIA. A valid certificate confirms whether the Lapis is natural, treated, dyed, or reconstituted — ensuring transparency and guaranteeing authenticity.

Genuine Lapis Lazuli has a smooth yet slightly matte finish with fine golden specks of pyrite visible across the surface. Be cautious of stones that look too glossy or highly polished, as these are often coated with resin or other substances to hide flaws and enhance shine artificially.

True Lapis Lazuli contains a natural balance of calcite (white streaks) and pyrite (golden flecks). Too much white or an absence of pyrite shimmer often signals a lower-quality stone. The most desirable Lapis features an even royal blue tone with scattered natural inclusions that give it character and authenticity.

If the price seems unrealistically low for a vividly blue, well-cut Lapis Lazuli, it likely isn’t genuine. Premium-quality Lapis retains its value and rarely comes cheap. Always purchase from reputable sellers who provide certification, clear images, transparent pricing, and a return policy — ensuring you get a truly natural stone worth your investment.