Lazuli Stone Value and Pricing Data, Along with Insights on Jewelry Usage
===========================================================================
Lapis lazuli, a captivating blue gemstone, has been used for art and jewelry since ancient times. Its value is primarily determined by several key factors, including color, inclusions, grain uniformity, polish quality, and cut artistry.
Color
The most important determinant of lapis lazuli value is its color. The highest-value lapis lazuli shows a deep, intense blue with violet tones. This deep, uniform blue color is considered the apex of quality and directly impacts price. Stones with a lighter blue or patchy appearance, or stripes, tend to be less valuable.
Inclusions
The presence of pyrite inclusions (small gold-colored flecks) can enhance value for many collectors and jewelry lovers, as they add visual interest and a desirable “starry” effect. By contrast, calcite inclusions (white streaks or patches) almost always reduce the value. The less calcite visible in the stone, the better the quality is considered to be.
Grain Uniformity and Texture
Fine-grained and uniform specimens of lapis lazuli can take on a smooth, highly polished surface, which is more attractive and valuable compared to coarser-grained stones.
Polish and Cut
The quality of the polish and the skill of faceting or shaping also affect value, as a good polish brings out the stone’s best color and texture, while an expert cut maximizes its visual appeal.
Additional contextual notes:
- Geographic origin (e.g., Afghanistan or Persia) can be associated with higher quality lapis lazuli, though this is a secondary factor compared to the stone’s visual characteristics.
- Both acid and streak testing are destructive tests and should only be conducted by a professional gemologist.
- Lapis lazuli can range in color from medium, grayish blue to deep indigo, with varying amounts of white and brassy gold from calcite and pyrite inclusions.
- Lapis lazuli has been synthesized by Pierre Gilson of Paris and Carroll Chatham in the United States.
- Denim and country-western clothing have opened a niche for lapis lazuli from Chile, which is now sold under the name "denim lapis."
- The death mask of King Tutankhamun includes blue-painted glass bands instead of natural lapis lazuli.
- Many large jewelry supply houses offer synthetic lapis lazuli, with or without pyrite.
- There is a growing trend to set fine-quality lapis lazuli in gold and complement it with diamonds or colored gems.
In conclusion, the critical factors are a deep, pure blue color, minimal calcite, pleasing pyrite inclusions, fine grain, and good polish and cut quality. These factors contribute to the value of lapis lazuli, making it a sought-after gemstone for collectors and jewelry lovers alike.
- Lapis lazuli, a valued gemstone in jewelry and art, is highly sought after due to its deep, intense blue color with violet tones.
- The presence of pyrite inclusions in lapis lazuli can boost its value, providing a desirable "starry" effect, while an excessive amount of calcite can decrease the stone's worth.
- When it comes to jewelry, the stylish combination of fine-quality lapis lazuli, gold, diamonds, and other colored gems is popular in the fashion-and-beauty lifestyle.
- A clean, uncluttered home-and-garden setting can showcase the beauty of a lapis lazuli piece, making it a striking centerpiece to display.
- Whether it's a romantic dinner out or a luxurious vacation, traveling with a piece of jewelry incorporating a lapis lazuli stone can add an element of extravagance to any relationships experience.
- For pet owners, unique jewelry pieces featuring lapis lazuli can celebrate the bond between them and their furry companions, while car shopping might reveal a dealership that offers high-end jewelry as a perk for a prestigious vehicle purchase.
