> Lapis lazuli is an ultramarine-blue rock flecked with golden pyrite, of medium hardness (5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale), which tradition links to wisdom, trut

*Source : https://meilleures-bijouteries.fr/en/guides/lapis-lazuli-benefits/*

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● Guide

# Lapis lazuli: virtues, wisdom and history

Published on **25/07/2026** · By **Sébastien Joumel**

In brief

**Lapis lazuli is an ultramarine-blue rock flecked with golden pyrite, of medium hardness (5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale), which tradition links to wisdom, truth and communication.** Historic and sensitive, it needs a little care. Here's what it is and how to choose it.

## What lapis lazuli is

Lapis lazuli isn't a single mineral but a **rock**, made mainly of _lazurite_ (the deep blue), _calcite_ (white veins) and _pyrite_ (golden flecks). Its hardness (**5 to 5.5**) is moderate and it is slightly porous: it dislikes water, salt and cosmetics. Used since antiquity, it also produced the ultramarine pigment.

## Meaning & virtues in tradition

In crystal tradition, lapis lazuli is the stone of **wisdom**, truth and **communication**. **These virtues are traditions and beliefs: they are not scientifically demonstrated and replace no medical advice** (see sources).

## How to wear and choose it

Its medium hardness and porosity make it better suited to a **pendant, earrings or a low-water bracelet**. A fine lapis shows a deep, even blue with fine pyrite; beware imitations (dyed jasper, resin). See our [natural stone jewellery guide](https://meilleures-bijouteries.fr/en/guides/natural-stone-jewellery-guide/).

## Care

A barely damp soft cloth, no soaking, salt or ultrasonics. Keep it away from perfume and prolonged water.

## Sources & references

-   **French National Museum of Natural History** ([mnhn.fr](https://www.mnhn.fr)): mineralogy (lazurite, rocks).
-   **Mohs scale**: hardness (lapis lazuli ≈ 5-5.5).
-   **DGCCRF** ([economie.gouv.fr/dgccrf](https://www.economie.gouv.fr/dgccrf)): health claims.

## Frequently asked questions

What are the virtues of lapis lazuli?

Tradition links it to wisdom, truth and communication. These virtues are beliefs, with no scientifically demonstrated effect, and replace no medical advice.

How do I recognise genuine lapis lazuli?

It shows a deep ultramarine blue, often dotted with fine golden pyrite and white calcite veins. A too-uniform blue with no inclusions may reveal an imitation (dyed jasper or resin).

Can lapis lazuli go in water?

Better avoided: of medium hardness and slightly porous, it dislikes prolonged water, salt and cosmetics. Simply clean it with a barely damp soft cloth.

## Read also

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Guide

Amethyst: virtues, meaning and how to wear it

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Guide

Aquamarine: virtues, serenity and meaning

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