Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is mainly found in Afghanistan, particularly in the Badakhshan province. Other sources include parts of Chile, Russia, and Pakistan. This gemstone has been used since antiquity, with notable historical sources in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. It was used in artifacts, jewelry, and even powdered for pigment in Renaissance painting. It's commonly used in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Its vibrant color makes it a popular choice for decorative pieces. Historically, it was ground into powder to make ultramarine pigment, used in painting and dyeing. Lapis Lazuli typically ranks between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.