Oval Denim Lapis Cabochon

Lapis Lazuli has been mined in the mountains of Afghanistan for more than 6,000 years. In fact, these mountains are the world's oldest known commercial gemstone mines. Lapis Lazuli's vivid blue used to be prized as much as sapphire and was ground up to make blue dye prior to synthetic dyes. Lapis Lazuli is actually a rock, composed of several different minerals of lazurite, pyrite and calcite in varying amounts. While lazurite is responsible for the blue color, calcite produces white veins and pyrite is present in gold flecks. The highest quality of Lapis Lazuli is a pure, vivid royal blue with no calcite or pyrite present. Clean with warm, soapy water. Avoid use of ultrasonic and steam cleaner. Denim Lapis is named for its resemblance to denim, displaying a light to medium blue color , with more white calcite streaking present. Treatment: None Great alternative for December birthstone