LAZURITE Meaning and
Definition
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Lazurite is a noun that refers to a rare blue mineral, belonging to the group of silicate minerals known as feldspathoids. It is primarily composed of aluminum, silicon, sulfur, and sodium. Lazurite is widely recognized for its deep blue or azure color, which is often used as a vivid blue pigment in artworks and pigments such as ultramarine.
In its pure form, lazurite crystallizes in the isometric system, typically forming dodecahedral crystals that exhibit a vitreous or greasy luster. The mineral commonly occurs in metamorphic rocks, specifically in contact-metamorphosed limestone deposits or within contact zones of igneous intrusive rocks.
Historically, lazurite has been highly prized and acclaimed for its use in ancient and Renaissance artwork, as well as in the manufacturing of decorative items like jewelry and statuettes. It has a long history of being used as a pigment in the creation of vibrant blue pigments, including ultramarine, and notably, it was once considered one of the most expensive pigments in the world.
However, due to its scarcity and difficulty in acquiring pure lazurite, synthetic alternatives have been developed to mimic its intense blue color. These alternatives, while more accessible and affordable, typically lack the same brilliance and unique qualities found in genuine lazurite.
Common Misspellings for LAZURITE
- kazurite
- pazurite
- oazurite
- lzzurite
- lszurite
- lwzurite
- lqzurite
- laxurite
- lazyrite
- lazhrite
- lazjrite
- laz8rite
- laz7rite
- lazueite
- lazufite
- lazutite
- lazu5ite
- lazu4ite
- lazurute
- lazurjte
Etymology of LAZURITE
The word "lazurite" has its roots in the Persian word "lazhward", which refers to a blue mineral. This Persian term was then adopted into Arabic as "lazaward" and eventually made its way into European languages. In medieval Latin, it became "lazurium", and from there, it evolved into "lazurite" in English.
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