What is lapis lazuli?
Q: What is lapis lazuli?
A: Lapis lazuli is a mineral and a gemstone that is formed as a metamorphic rock of the limestone type.
Q: Why is lapis lazuli famous?
A: Lapis lazuli is famous for its beautiful blue color, and its name means "stone of blue."
Q: How has lapis lazuli been used throughout history?
A: Lapis lazuli has been used for many things including beads and jewelry since prehistoric times, and carved into statuettes. Its major use was as a pigment (color) in artists' paint.
Q: What was lapis lazuli used for during Medieval and Renaissance times?
A: During Medieval and Renaissance times, lapis lazuli was ground into powder and mixed with oil as a pigment for painting the sky and blue clothes. It can be seen in the fresco paintings of Giotto and the tempera paintings of Fra Angelico.
Q: Can lapis lazuli be used in jewelry?
A: Yes, lapis lazuli has been made into beads and used in jewelry since prehistoric times.
Q: Can lapis lazuli be carved?
A: Yes, lapis lazuli can be carved into statuettes (little sculptures).
Q: What type of rock is lapis lazuli formed from?
A: Lapis lazuli is formed as a metamorphic rock of the limestone type.
