How Much Is Lapis Lazuli Worth?
Also known as Lapis
Lapis lazuli is a deep-blue rock (not a single mineral) valued for its intense ultramarine color, ideally flecked with gold pyrite and free of white calcite. Tumbled stones and small beads sell for $3–$30, good cabochons and carvings for $20–$150, and top-grade Afghan lapis with even royal-blue color and fine pyrite for $10–$100+ per carat. The finest material comes from the Sar-e-Sang mines of Afghanistan. Value rises with deep, even blue (excess white calcite lowers it), an attractive scatter of pyrite 'gold,' good polish, and size. The market includes dyed pale lapis, dyed howlite or jasper, and synthetic 'Gilson' lapis, so color that rubs off or a suspiciously cheap 'flawless' blue are warning signs.
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Lapis Lazuli value by type
| Type | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Tumbled / beads | $3 – $30 |
| Cabochons / carvings | $20 – $150 |
| Fine Afghan grade (per carat) | $10 – $100+/ct |
| Large fine carvings | $100 – $1,000+ |
Educational ballparks for typical specimens — not a formal appraisal.
What drives lapis lazuli value
- Blue depth & evenness. Deep, even royal/ultramarine blue is top; patchy pale blue is cheaper.
- Calcite content. Heavy white calcite veining lowers value; clean blue is prized.
- Pyrite. A fine even scatter of gold pyrite is desirable; large dull blotches less so.
- Origin & size. Afghan Sar-e-Sang material and larger clean pieces command more.
Is your lapis lazuli real?
Dyed howlite, dyed jasper ('Swiss lapis'), dyed pale lapis, and synthetic Gilson lapis are all sold as lapis. Genuine lapis is Mohs 5–5.5, cool and dense, with natural pyrite flecks and some calcite. Uniform 'perfect' blue with no calcite, color that transfers on an acetone swab, or pyrite that looks painted-on suggest treatment or imitation.
Full lapis lazulireal-or-fake guide & at-home tests →FAQ
- What makes lapis lazuli valuable?
- Deep even ultramarine blue, minimal white calcite, an attractive scatter of natural gold pyrite, and Afghan origin drive the price.
- Is my lapis dyed?
- Rub an inconspicuous spot with an acetone swab — if blue transfers, it's dyed. Genuine lapis color does not rub off.