Lazulite
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Description
A minor blue-green color gemstone composed of iron aluminum phosphate. Although its name has caused some confusion, it has no connection with Lazurite, the main ingredient in Lapis lazuli. Lazulite is a translucent stone that has been found in Switzerland (Zermatt), Austria, Sweden, Malagasy Republic, Brazil (Minas Gerais), Canada (Yukon), and the U.S.(California, Georgia). It was used for inlays on an amulet from the Oxxus Treasure (Ogden 1982).
Synonyms and Related Terms
Lazulit (Deut.)
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Monoclinic system with bipyramidal crystals or grains.
- Good cleavage in one direction.
- Fracture = uneven.
- Luster = vitreous to dull.
- Streak = white.
| Composition | MgAl2(OH)2(PO4)2 |
|---|---|
| Mohs Hardness | 5.0 - 6.0 |
| Density | 3.0-3.4 g/ml |
| Refractive Index | 1.60; 1.63; 1.64 |
Comparisons
Properties of Common Gemstones
Resources and Citations
- Mineralogy Database: Lazulite
- Thomas Gregory, The Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Reinhold Publishing, New York, 3rd ed., 1942
- Jack Odgen, Jewellery of the Ancient World, Rizzoli International Publications Inc., New York City, 1982
- Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: "lazulite." Accessed 7 Apr. 2005 .
- C.W.Chesterman, K.E.Lowe, Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, Alfred A. Knopf, New York, 1979
- Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazulite (Accessed Sept. 7, 2005)