Lazurite Hearts & Stars

Lazurite is a tectosilicate mineral with sulfate, sulfur and chloride with formula (Na, Ca)₈[(S, Cl, SO₄, OH)₂|]. It is a feldspathoid and a member of the sodalite group. Lazurite crystallizes in the isometric system although well‐formed crystals are rare. 

Luster: Vitreous

Color: Deep blue, azure, violet-blue, greenish blue

Refractive index: 1.502–1.522

Crystal class: Hextetrahedral (43m); H-M symbol: (4 3m)

Crystal habit: Crystals occur as dodecahedra, or rarely cubes; granular, disseminated, or massive

Crystal system: Isometric

Fracture: Uneven 

Lazurite is famous for its gem form, Lapis Lazuli. Lapis Lazuli, casually called by its shortened name Lapis, is the gemstone form of Lazurite that is associated with white Calcite and sparkling Pyrite. The name Lazurite is derived from the term "Lazaward", which means heaven in Arabic, alluding to its blue color.