{"product_id":"lapis-lazuli-sphere-deep-blue-with-calcite-core-pyrite-inclusions","title":"Lapis Lazuli Sphere — Deep Blue with Calcite Core + Pyrite Inclusions","description":"\u003cp\u003eLapis Lazuli Sphere — Deep Blue with Calcite Core + Pyrite Inclusions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rich lapis lazuli sphere showing deep ultramarine blue with scattered metallic pyrite inclusions and a distinct central calcite-rich core.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece is a great visual example of how lapis forms as a metamorphic rock, combining multiple minerals into one structure — rather than being a single crystal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe contrast between the intense blue lazurite, pale calcite core, and gold-toned pyrite creates a natural “planet-like” effect when viewed from different angles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🔍 Key Features\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍 Deep royal blue lazurite-rich body\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍 Central calcite core zone (light grey\/white)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍 Scattered pyrite inclusions (metallic gold flecks)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍 Natural banding and mineral transitions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍 High polish enhancing colour contrast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📍 Strong visual “orb\/core” formation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📏 Dimensions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiameter: 3 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight: 40 grams\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧪 Geological \u0026amp; Scientific Notes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRock Type: Lapis Lazuli (metamorphic rock)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimary Mineral: Lazurite\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther Components: Calcite, Pyrite\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChemical Composition (Lazurite): (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(SO₄,S,Cl)₂\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMohs Hardness: 5 – 5.5\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLustre: Dull to vitreous (pyrite = metallic)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTransparency: Opaque\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLapis lazuli forms through metamorphism of limestone, where heat and pressure transform the original rock and allow new minerals to develop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blue colour comes from lazurite\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe white\/grey areas are calcite remnants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe gold flecks are pyrite (iron sulphide)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis mix is what makes every piece completely unique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e🧼 Care\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSofter than quartz — handle with care\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid water soaking (can affect calcite)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClean with dry or slightly damp cloth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep away from acids and chemicals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e💡 Why This Piece Stands Out\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Clear core formation — very eye-catching\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Strong contrast between blue, white, and gold\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Balanced mineral distribution (great display piece)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e✔ Compact size but high visual impact\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the kind of piece that naturally draws attention on a shelf.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Crystal Ballerz","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53810917146965,"sku":null,"price":9.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1039\/9295\/1125\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_85daa0b8-9102-4523-af08-27af39db16b4.jpg?v=1777804298","url":"https:\/\/crystalballerz.co.uk\/products\/lapis-lazuli-sphere-deep-blue-with-calcite-core-pyrite-inclusions","provider":"Crystal Ballerz","version":"1.0","type":"link"}