Composition and Use Lapis-Lazuli

The lapis-lazuli is a mineral whose beautiful blue colour varies from the palest tint to a deep blue, nearly black. The finest is a uniform colour of deep azure inclining to purple. Its specific gravity is 2.6.

Chemists differ in its analysis; but it is known to contain silica and alumina, with a supplement of soda, lime, and sulphur. Its colour is of such enduring quality that the preparation made from it, called ultramarine, is never deteriorated by the air, and is consequently of the utmost value to artists. Lapis-lazuli takes a beautiful polish, and is converted into many exquisite articles of ornament. It is found in Persia, Siberia, and Chili, but the most esteemed specimens are brought from China.

APPLICATION TO THE FINE ARTS OF LAPIS-LAZULI.

Lapis-lazuli is frequently engraved, and it is carved also into cups and vases.

The French crown jewels contained some beautiful objects in lapis-lazuli; among them a cup in the form of a boat, of large dimensions, and valued at $37,200, and a sabre with a handle of lapis-lazuli given to Louis XVI. by Tippoo-Saib, valued at $1116.

Many beautiful specimens were exhibited at the Paris Exhibition; exquisite carving by Rudolphi, a marine shell carved of azure lapis-lazuli, finely mounted by Morrel, and chef-d'oeuvres by Duponchel and Jarny.