Lapis lazuli
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Lapis lazuli is a deep-blue metamorphic rock used as a semi-precious stone that has been prized since antiquity for its intense color. Its name originates from the Persian word for the gem, lāžward, a
Lapis lazuli in its natural state, with pyrite inclusions (specimen from Afghanistan)
Lapis lazuli seen through a microscope (x240 magnification)
Crystals of lazurite (the main mineral in lapis lazuli) from the Sar-i Sang Mining District in Afghanistan
A polished block of lapis lazuli
Sodalite
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Sodalite is a tectosilicate mineral with the formula Na8Cl2, with royal blue varieties widely used as an ornamental gemstone. Although massive sodalite samples are opaque, crystals are usually transpa
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