Lapis lazuli Gemstone is known as a popular gemstone for a long time, and it is popular even today. These can be converted into jewelries, beads and carvings. The gemstone is attractive with its bright blue color, which can even be used in cosmetics and paintings. The eye appeal and contrast created by this stone is superb. Today, its jewelry is very common, and in most cases it is embedded in silver metal. Apart from women, these are also used as jewels of men. The stone has a tough nature and comes with an excellent polish. Anyone fascinated with gemstones also love this gem.
The Value Of The Stone:
The color of the stone is one of the most noticeable and distinguishing factor in the stone. The deep blue shade comes with violent tones. At times, these can also be found with uniform specimens that can attain a smooth and polished surface. Inclusions of calcites often lower the value of the stone. On the other hand, pyrite inclusions can enhance the value. The quality of polish is a great factor in determining the overall value of the stone.
Availability Of Synthetics:
Today, many large jewelry stores offer the synthetic version of the stone. While some are with pyrite, others do not contain any pyrite. It is true that these synthetics are modern inventions, yet the imitations can be traced back to the ancient Egyptian history. These are also available in artifacts with blue paints and glass backs and are carved in blue ceramic materials. This was an attempt to imitate the original stone.
On the other hand, the stimulants of the modern era include anything from glass, enamel, plastic and various dyed gems like jasper and howlite. In this context, it is important to remember that sodalite is the only natural gemstone available in larger sizes. It is deep blue enough to convince the look of a lapis simulant.
Determining The Natural Stone:
It is often seen that acid testing is done to the stone in order to determine whether the stone is natural. A drop of hydrochloric acid on the stone will release the gas of H2S, and this will indicate whether lapis is natural or a synthetic version. On the other hand, streak testing is also done and the natural specimen of lapis will leave behind a light blue streak. Both these types of tests should be conducted only by a professional gemologist.
Sizes And Care:
The rough blocks of lapis that come in fine color can be over the weight of 100 kg. These are mainly found in Afghanistan. The stone has the hardness of about 5-6 inches. Therefore, when it is converted into jewelry, it requires appropriate care. It is widely used in bracelets and rings. By choosing a protective setting, it can be used for occasional wearing. At times, it might even require periodic re-polishing. Soft brush and a mild soap are recommended for cleaning the stone. Make sure that you avoid mechanical cleaning with chemical solvents.
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