Lapis lazuli is an opaque rock made up of lazurite, calcite and pyrite. The name for this deep, vivid blue stone comes from
the Arabic lazaward, for "heaven". Most material is from Afghanistan though some is from Russia or Chili. It is rarely found in North America.
The stones of blue and green are azurite/malachite, formed by intergrowth of the two materials, presenting a beautiful painting-like effect. These stones
reminded me of a topographic map. Azurite is named for its deep azure blue color and malachite comes from the Greek word moloche
("mallow") in reference to its leaf green color. is found in copper ore deposits. This material is probably from AZ though
other sources could include Chile, NV or UT.
See coordinating pendant/brooch |