Tumbled natural lapis lazuli from Afghanistan, in sizes from 25 to 34 mm and approximate weight of 17 to 25 grams. The legendary ultramarine blue of each piece — an intensity that captivated entire civilizations — appears flecked with golden pyrite (10-30%) and streaked with white calcite veins, creating a unique star map in each tumbled stone. Satin surface with deep luster. Untreated, 100% natural.
Specifications
| Mineral |
Lapis Lazuli (lazurite + calcite + pyrite) |
| Origin |
Afghanistan |
| Condition |
Tumbled — rotary polished |
| Size |
25–34 mm |
| Approximate weight |
17–25 grams |
| Color |
Royal blue to intense ultramarine |
| Pyrite inclusions |
Golden, 10-30% of the surface |
| Hardness |
5–5.5 Mohs |
| Treatment |
None — natural color and structure |
History and meaning
Lapis lazuli is one of the stones with the greatest presence in human history. In Ancient Egypt it was a symbol of truth and wisdom — Tutankhamun's mask has lapis lazuli in the eyelids — and was part of royal funerary offerings. In medieval Europe, the ultramarine blue pigment obtained by grinding it was worth more by weight than gold and was reserved for the Virgin's mantle in major works.
In spiritual tradition, it has been considered a stone of mental clarity and spiritual protection, used as a meditation companion and in energetic well-being practices.
Note: The spiritual meanings of lapis lazuli belong to cultural traditions. They do not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment.
Uses
Their compact size (25-34 mm) and balanced weight (17-25 g) make them especially versatile:
- Mineral decoration and collector's items
- Personal amulets and wire wrap or macramé jewelry
- Meditation and wellness practices
- Centerpieces and mineralogy displays
Care
With a hardness of 5–5.5 Mohs, lapis lazuli is softer than quartz. Clean with a dry microfiber cloth or slightly damp — dry immediately. Avoid acids and ammonia, which damage the calcite in the white veins. No ultrasonic cleaners. Store separately from harder minerals to avoid scratches.
Frequently asked questions
Is the color natural or has it been treated?
100% natural. The ultramarine blue is characteristic of lazurite and does not fade under normal use. No tumbled stone from Anima Mundi Crystals receives color treatment.
How do I identify authentic lapis lazuli from dyed howlite or sodalite?
Authentic lapis lazuli always shows all three phases: blue (lazurite), white (calcite), and metallic gold (pyrite). Dyed howlite has a more uniform blue with no trace of pyrite. Sodalite lacks visible calcite. A streak on unglazed ceramic leaves a blue mineral trace in authentic lapis lazuli; imitations leave a dye but no mineral granulation.
Are all pieces the same?
Sizes range from 25 to 34 mm with a weight of 17 to 25 grams. We hand-select each tumbled stone to maintain homogeneity within the range, but the distribution of pyrite and the calcite pattern vary — which is what makes each natural lapis lazuli unique. The images are representative of the current stock.
Explore more: Complete Lapis Lazuli Guide · All Our Minerals · Lapis Lazuli Cabochons
