Pricing Insights of Lapis Lazuli Gemstone
The price of Lapis Lazuli depends mostly on its color, color consistency, presence of calcite and pyrite, treatment, cut, polish, size, and appearance. As opposed to transparent gems, Lapis Lazuli is an opaque ornamental stone, meaning that its surface appearance is more important than the regular clarity or brilliance.
High quality Lapis Lazuli stones are usually valued for their strong, consistent dark or medium-dark blue or slightly violet-blue color. Valuable material should contain no visible white calcite. Golden spots of pyrite can be naturally present in the stone and they will not affect its quality negatively.
| Quality Level |
Price INR (per carat) |
Price USD (per carat) |
| Basic |
INR 200 to INR 500 |
$2 to $5 |
| Good |
INR 500 to INR 1,000 |
$5 to $10 |
| Fine |
INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 |
$10 to $21 |
| Premium |
INR 2,000 to INR 3,000+ |
$21 to $31 |
Note: The prices above are indicative retail price ranges only and must not be taken as set rates for Lapis Lazuli. Each stone can be priced higher or lower than that, according to its color, enhancement, origin, carat weight, cut, and certification status, among other factors.
Factors Affecting Lapis Lazuli Stone Price
Lapis Lazuli stone price is shaped by its origin, color richness, carat size, clarity, and cut. Afghan stones with deep blue tones and golden flecks lead the market, offering unmatched beauty, rarity, and artisanal value in fine jewelry.
Origin
The most coveted Lapis Lazuli comes from Afghanistan, particularly the Badakhshan mines, known for producing deep blue stones with minimal calcite and subtle gold flecks. Chilean and Russian varieties are more affordable but often contain more white streaks or less vibrant colors.
Colour
Color is the most significant value factor. Stones with a rich royal or ultramarine blue, evenly distributed with minimal white calcite and fine pyrite specks, are most valuable. Pale, patchy, or dyed lapis lazuli stones are typically less expensive.
Carat
While lajward stone is commonly available in larger sizes, Lapis lazuli stone price per carat increases for larger stones that maintain consistent quality, color, and polish. A flawless large cabochon can command a premium.
Clarity
Unlike transparent gemstones, Lapis Lazuli is valued for opacity and surface uniformity. Stones with fewer visible calcite streaks and evenly distributed golden pyrite inclusions are priced higher.
Cut
It is most often cut into cabochons, beads, and carvings. Well-proportioned cuts with smooth finishes and symmetrical shapes increase aesthetic appeal and value. Intricate carvings or designer cuts can also raise the lapis lazuli price.
Treatment
Lapis Lazuli might be treated through dyeing to enhance color and to mask any visible calcite, although some untreated stones may also have been waxed or oiled to enhance color and luster. As these forms of treatment can impact the stone's value and maintenance, buyers must find out if the stone has undergone any treatment.
Certification and Identification
In order to establish the authenticity of valuable Lapis Lazuli, a recognized gemological certification is very useful. However, these gemological reports should not be mistaken for a universally recognized grading system; according to GIA, it certifies and does not grade Lapis Lazuli.