Lapis lazuli is an aggregate metamorphic rock comprised of several minerals; lazurite, calcite, and other minor constituents. Its color and mottling can range depending on the amount of each of these minerals.

Lapis' prized golden flecks that feature a gleaming metallic luster is the iron rich mineral pyrite. Lazurite is what gives the gem its coveted ultramarine blue coloring. Calcite provides white crystallized areas. Uniform blue color is the most valued, however, the speckled variations of the stone remain popular in all levels of the jewelry industry.

Afghanistan is known to produce the finest quality lapis lazuli and is the most significant source. The mountainous Northeastern terrain has been an important source throughout antiquity and continues to produce today. Other major deposits are in Russia and the Andes mountains of Chile.

Historically lapis has always been significant with its regal blue coloring and flashes of what could be interpreted as gold. There are many mentions of the gem in historical texts such as the bible and the story of Gilgamesh. 

Lapis decorated Greece, the Roman Empire, ancient Egypt, and Mesopotamia. Then it navigated its way to Europe through trade routes. Here during the Renaissance lapis was inlaid as mosaic for church apses as a representation of heaven.

Being an aggregate, lapis was easily crushed to be used as the pigment ultramarine blue. This color was wielded by several masters throughout time; Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, Titian's Bacchus & Adriadne, and Van Gogh's Starry Night. The hue was unparalleled in bringing the majesty of the sky to life.