Lapis lazuli, a captivating gemstone prized for its deep blue hue and often speckled with gold pyrite, has held significant value for millennia. But how much is lapis lazuli actually worth? The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple number. The price of lapis lazuli varies dramatically depending on a number of factors, making it crucial to understand these elements before purchasing or selling.
What Factors Determine Lapis Lazuli Price?
Several key factors influence the price of lapis lazuli, affecting its value significantly:
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Color: The most important factor. A deep, intense, and even blue is the most desirable and commands the highest price. Lighter blues, variations in tone, or excessive white calcite veins reduce value.
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Pyrite Inclusions: While some pyrite is desirable, adding to the gemstone's unique character, excessive or poorly distributed pyrite can lower the value. The ideal scenario is a well-distributed sprinkling of glittering gold pyrite against the deep blue background.
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Calcite Content: Calcite is a common inclusion in lapis lazuli. While a small amount is acceptable, high calcite content significantly diminishes the stone's value and overall appeal, often making it less valuable than other stones.
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Treatment: While some treatments are acceptable within the industry, undisclosed treatments can significantly impact the price and ethical considerations of purchasing. Always ask about any treatments applied to the lapis lazuli piece.
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Cut and Polish: A well-cut and polished lapis lazuli will always be more valuable than a poorly cut one. The craftsmanship directly affects the gemstone's overall appearance and brilliance.
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Origin: The source of the lapis lazuli can influence its price. Historically significant mines (like those in Afghanistan) often command higher prices due to reputation and history.
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Size and Carat Weight: Larger, higher-carat lapis lazuli pieces generally command higher prices, although the other factors mentioned above still heavily influence the final value.
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Rarity: Extremely rare varieties of lapis lazuli, perhaps exhibiting unique color variations or exceptional clarity, will be far more valuable.
How Much Does Lapis Lazuli Cost Per Carat?
There's no single answer to this question. Prices can range from a few dollars per carat for lower-quality material to several hundred dollars per carat for exceptionally fine specimens. The price per carat often reflects the factors detailed above. Think of it less as a fixed price and more as a range dictated by quality.
What is the difference between lapis lazuli and sodalite?
While both are dark blue stones, lapis lazuli is typically darker and richer in color with the characteristic golden pyrite inclusions. Sodalite lacks these gold flecks and has a more uniform, slightly less saturated blue hue. These differences influence their respective prices. Lapis Lazuli is generally more expensive due to its rarity and historical significance.
What are the different grades of lapis lazuli?
While there isn't a standardized grading system like with diamonds, the trade generally recognizes distinctions based on the factors discussed earlier. Higher-grade lapis features intense blue color, minimal calcite, and desirable pyrite inclusion patterns. Lower grades have more calcite, less vibrant color, and potentially excessive or poorly distributed pyrite.
Where can I buy high-quality lapis lazuli?
Reputable jewelers and gem dealers are the best places to purchase high-quality lapis lazuli. It's vital to carefully examine the stone, ask questions about its origin and treatments, and request certificates of authenticity when possible to ensure you're getting a genuine and ethically sourced gemstone.
Ultimately, the value of lapis lazuli is subjective and depends on the individual piece's characteristics and the buyer's preferences. Understanding the factors that influence price will help you make an informed decision when buying or selling this beautiful gemstone. Remember to always seek out reputable sellers and have any significant purchases professionally appraised.
