Hauyne (var: Lazurite) (Lapis Lazuli) (ex Kay Robertson Collection)

Item Description

It should be noted that Lazurite is probably no longer going to be a species, according to Tom Moore and Rob Woodside (see Mineralogical Record 45 #3: 281-336), all of Lazurite that has been analyzed turns out to be a sulfide rich variety of Hauyne. Lazurite was long defined as its own species, but reclassification is needed and this well known material will probably be discredited. This material is typically used for cabochons and carving in its massive form (Lapis Lazuli). This piece is a good representative specimen of this material featuring sharp dodecahedral crystal of rich navy blue "Lazurite" with white Calcite and minor Pyrite. The largest crystal measures 2.1 cm. Ex Kay Robertson Collection (#120702). Kay is a prominent California collector, who specialized in European classics (see the article in the March-April, 2007 Mineralogical Record). A beautiful and attractive old-timer from this historic locality.