Lazurite is the blue component of the gemstone Lapis Lazuli, which is in actuality a Lazurite-Calcite-Pyrite metamorphic rock. Displaying a deep blue color, a hardness of 5.5 on the Moh’s hardness scale and a vitreous to waxy luster, this mineral is quite popular in the gem/jewelry trade and for stone carving.

The crystal system for Lazurite is isometric. Crystals, though rare, are dodecahedral and octahedral, occasionally with modified cubic faces, and typically in white Marble matrix. These crystallized specimens are hard to come by and are highly sought after by collectors. The most common crystal habit is massive, and less frequently found habits include grainy, encrusting and in veins.

Localities for quality specimens are few, and include Afghanistan, Chile, Italy and Russia.