Questions & Answers
Why is lapis lazuli so admired?
Lapis lazuli, once known as “blue gold,” has been prized for its beauty, pigmentation, and power for over five-thousand years. Its scarcity, proud history, and stunning color make lapis lazuli jewelry a highly valued commodity worldwide.
How many lapis lazuli mines exist and where are they located?
Today, lapis lazuli is mined primarily in Chile and Afghanistan– Sar-E-Sang in northern Afghanistan and Flor de Los Andes in Ovalle, Chile. The Chilean mine produces the bulk of the commercially available lapis because of the underproduction and political instability in Afghanistan.
Which stone is the best quality?
While both Afghan and Chilean lapis are of equal quality, the gemstones have some differences. Afghan lapis lazuli has an intense blue color with gold flecks, but is nearly absent of any white or grey streaks that characterizes Chilean lapis. In fact, the deep blue of Afghan lapis is occasionally light violet. Chilean lapis typically has less pyrite, and is clearer and more translucent. For more information on their differences, click here:
How do I know if it is natural lapis lazuli?
Fake lapis lazuli is usually easy to spot because it will not be the same deep, ultramarine color. It is also unlikely to have the deposits of pyrite that give lapis its sparkling quality. Most imitation stones are a darker blue or blue-grey that will fade over time. You can also know the gemstone is real by its price! If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Why are some stones clearer than others?
There are many different variations of lapis lazuli because of the complexity of its chemical composition. Each piece of lapis will have a slight variation in its composition, which will in turn affect its coloration. Clearer stones will typically have less calcite or pyrite. While some pieces of lapis may look different from others, this is not necessarily a reflection of the stone’s quality. The nuances and “imperfections” in the stone’s appearance often add to its beauty.
How long does the warranty last on the products?
Lapis Lazuli House offers a lifetime guarantee on all its products! If you are unhappy with your purchase and would like to return or exchange it please fill out the contact form here http://bit.ly/1QpHtnj and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
What is the green stone?
Many of our pieces feature a green stone called Malachite. Malachite is also a native Chilean gemstone, found in Chile’s copper mines because the mineral is composed from various copper chemical compounds. Malachite has been used in jewelry, ornaments, and even make-up since ancient times.
Who are the manufacturers?
All of our unique and quality pieces are handcrafted by expert artisans at the foot of the Chilean Andes. Lapis Lazuli House partners with these individuals to sell their handmade pieces at our store in Santiago, online, and to export it.
How do I clean the silver?
Many of our pieces are created with sterling silver that can tarnish if worn frequently and not properly taken care of. Take a look at our guide on how to care for your sterling silver here: http://bit.ly/1St6UvO
Do you make custom orders?
Yes! If you would like to place a custom order, please fill out the contact form here with more details on what you are looking for and we will respond as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that custom orders will take 3-4 additional weeks.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we can send our products to anywhere in the world. Shipping charges can be found throughout the checkout process.
