Lazurite

Lazurite

SCIENCE / MINERALOGY
Lazurite is a sulfur-bearing blue feldspathoid mineral in the sodalite group and the principal ultramarine-blue phase in lapis lazuli. Its modern idealized formula is complex, commonly represented as Na₇Ca(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)(SO₄)(S₃)·H₂O. Polysulfide species trapped within its aluminosilicate framework produce the intense blue color.

GEOLOGY & FORMATION
Lazurite forms during contact metamorphism and metasomatism of carbonate rocks under sulfur- and sodium-rich conditions. It commonly occurs with calcite, pyrite, diopside, sodalite-group minerals, and mica. Famous deposits include Badakhshan, Afghanistan, as well as Russia and other lapis-producing districts.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Lazurite is traditionally associated with truth, wisdom, intuition, communication, and disciplined inner vision. As the primary blue component of lapis lazuli, it carries similar symbolism but focuses more specifically on clear understanding and honest expression.

KEY PROPERTIES
Truth • Wisdom • Intuition • Communication • Clarity • Inner vision • Awareness

CHAKRA: Third Eye • Throat
ELEMENT: Air
ZODIAC: Sagittarius • Aquarius
MOHS HARDNESS: 5–5.5

ACCURACY / TRADE-NAME NOTE
Valid sodalite-group mineral. Lazurite and lazulite are different minerals despite their similar names.