CHOOSING LAPIS LAZULI FOR YOUR JEWELRY
Prices vary from luxurious to very inexpensive, depending
especially on the beauty of the blue of a particular Lapis gem as well as the attractiveness of its inclusions. Color is of
utmost consideration.
The best COLOR of this opaque gemstone is a deep intense ultramarine blue
found only in a high quality Lapis. If the Lapis has an attractive sprinkling of small, twinkling gold-like INCLUSIONS of
pyrite, the gemstone is a desirable gem from Afghanistan. Small flecks of white indicate Chilean Lapis. Finely distributed
inclusions increase the value while blotchy grains reduce the value.
Lapis Lazuli is usually CUT
en cabochon for rings and pendants. Make sure that the gemstone is well domed, has good symmetry and is well polished. Lapis
takes an excellent polish in the hands of a skilled stone cutter.
CARE
Your
Lapis Lazuli jewelry should be protected from acidic substances. Lapis is sensitive to heat and alkali as well. It can be
scratched or chipped and so should be stored in a separate compartment of your jewelry box.
You
will be able to find a very nice Lapis Lazuli gemstone for your jewelry. Be selective and you will find beautiful gemstone
for jewelry for yourself or as a gift.
