Community identification
Not an insect (Mineral Specimen)
Lapis Lazuli (often containing Lazurite, Calcite, and Pyrite)
- Order & Family
- Metamorphic Rock (Geological Classification)
- Size
- Varies from microscopic grains to large boulders
Natural Habitat
Found in limestone in the Kokcha River valley of Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan, as well as in Russia west of Lake Baikal, and in the Chilean Andes.
Diet & Feeding
None (non-living mineral)
Behavior Patterns
Inert geological formation; composed of lazurite (blue), calcite (white), and pyrite (gold flecks). Does not exhibit biological behaviors.
Risks & Benefits
No biological risks. Very beneficial culturally and economically as a semi-precious stone used in jewelry, carvings, and historically as the pigment ultramarine.