Questions & Answers
Why is lapis lazuli so admired?
Lapis lazuli, once known as “blue gold,” has been treasured for more than five thousand years for its deep celestial color and rarity. Its vivid blue hue, historic significance, and natural scarcity have made it one of the most admired ornamental stones across civilizations.
How many lapis lazuli mines exist and where are they located?
Natural lapis lazuli is found in only a few regions worldwide. Today, the two principal commercial sources are the historic Sar-e-Sang mines in northern Afghanistan and the Flor de los Andes deposit in the Ovalle region of Chile. The Chilean deposit, developed in the twentieth century, operates within Chile’s established environmental and labor regulations and is widely regarded as a stable, conflict-free source of natural lapis lazuli.
Which stone is the best quality?
While both Afghan and Chilean lapis are of equal quality, the gemstones have some differences. Afghan lapis lazuli has an intense blue color with gold flecks, but is nearly absent of any white or grey streaks that characterizes Chilean lapis. In fact, the deep blue of Afghan lapis is occasionally light violet. Chilean lapis typically has less pyrite, and is clearer and more translucent. For more information on their differences, click here:
How do I know if it is natural lapis lazuli?
Fake lapis lazuli is usually easy to spot because it will not be the same deep, ultramarine color. It is also unlikely to have the deposits of pyrite that give lapis its sparkling quality. Most imitation stones are a darker blue or blue-grey that will fade over time. You can also know the gemstone is real by its price! If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Why are some stones clearer than others?
There are many different variations of lapis lazuli because of the complexity of its chemical composition. Each piece of lapis will have a slight variation in its composition, which will in turn affect its coloration. Clearer stones will typically have less calcite or pyrite. While some pieces of lapis may look different from others, this is not necessarily a reflection of the stone’s quality. The nuances and “imperfections” in the stone’s appearance often add to its beauty.
How long does the warranty last on the products?
We offer a limited lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover normal wear, accidental damage, or misuse
What is the green stone?
Many of our pieces feature a green stone called Malachite. Malachite is also a native Chilean gemstone, found in Chile’s copper mines because the mineral is composed from various copper chemical compounds. Malachite has been used in jewelry, ornaments, and even make-up since ancient times.
Who are the manufacturers?
The collection was originally developed by Chilean–American artist Luciana Celis Santelices and produced in collaboration with skilled artisans in Chile. Today, Lapis Lazuli House is U.S.-based and distributes this finite studio collection from North Carolina.
How do I clean the silver?
Many of our pieces are created with sterling silver that can tarnish if worn frequently and not properly taken care of. Take a look at our guide on how to care for your sterling silver here: http://bit.ly/1St6UvO
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we can send our products to anywhere in the world. Shipping charges can be found throughout the checkout process.