Lapis lazuli is one of those gemstones that instantly grabs attention. We all love its blue color with gold pyrite inclusions. But as stunning as it looks, lapis lazuli isn’t a “wear it and forget it” stone. This gemstone needs a little extra care to stay vibrant and beautiful. Whether you wear lapis lazuli jewelry or collect the stone, proper care can make all the difference. In this guide, we will discover the best ways to look after this gemstone.

What Makes Lapis Lazuli Different? Understanding Its Durability 

The composition of lapis lazuli is what makes it different. Instead of being a single mineral, lapis lazuli is actually a rock made up of several minerals. It mainly contains lazurite, along with calcite and pyrite. Those gold-like pyrite flecks are what give lapis its signature starry look.

When it comes to durability, lapis lazuli is a relatively soft stone. It measures around 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. It means that this gemstone is prone to getting scratches more easily than stones like quartz or sapphire. Lapis lazuli is also porous. Hence, it can absorb liquids and chemicals more readily. Because of this unique composition, lapis lazuli needs a bit more care and attention than harder gemstones.

Can Lapis Lazuli Go in Water?

While a quick splash of water won’t instantly ruin lapis lazuli, prolonged exposure to water is not recommended. As mentioned above that lapis is porous, water can seep into the stone and affect its surface over time. This is especially true for jewelry pieces that have been dyed or treated to enhance their color. That’s why you should always remove lapis lazuli jewelry before washing hands, showering, swimming, or doing household chores that involve water.

So, can you put lapis lazuli in water? Here’s the short answer: it’s best to avoid water exposure whenever possible.

When lapis lazuli gets wet repeatedly or stays wet for too long, it affects the stone quality. As a result, the stone may lose its natural shine and start to look dull or chalky. In some cases, water can react with the calcite inside the stone which causes discoloration or fading. 

If the stone has been dyed, water can also strip away the color, leaving it uneven or lighter in certain areas. Over time, moisture can weaken the surface, making lapis more prone to scratches and damage.

for read more related gemstone you can read now List of Blue Gemstones for Calmness and Communication.

How to Clean Lapis Lazuli Safely

If you wear this gemstone daily or even occasionally, then here’s an easy process to clean it:

Inspect the Lapis Lazuli Before Cleaning

Before you start, take a close look at the stone. Check for cracks, loose settings, or areas that look dull or chalky. If the lapis lazuli already shows signs of damage, skip cleaning and simply wipe it with a dry cloth. 

If you’re getting a gemstone from a reputable seller, then you don’t have to worry about such stones. At GemstonesforSale, each piece of lapis lazuli is picked for its quality. And when a stone is of premium quality, it also enhances its durability.

Use a Soft, Dry Cloth for Routine Cleaning

If you prefer cleaning it daily, then you can use a microfiber or cotton cloth. Ensure that the cloth you’re using is lint-free. It wipes away the dirt without scratching the stone’s surface.

Lightly Dampen a Cloth for Stubborn Dirt

If the stone needs a little extra cleaning, slightly dampen a cloth with plain water. You can also use lukewarm water. Now, gently wipe the lapis lazuli without rubbing too hard. An important thing to note here is that you should never place the stone directly under running water or soak it.

Dry the Stone Immediately After Cleaning

Once you’re done wiping, dry the lapis lazuli right away using a clean, dry cloth. Make sure no moisture is left on the surface. If you’re thinking what happens when lapis lazuli gets wet, know that even lingering water can dull the stone over time.

Before making any gemstone investment, understand the difference between lab-grown and natural gems in Lab-Grown vs Natural Gemstones: What Every Jewelry Maker & Buyer Should Know.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is a delicate stone, so there are certain things to avoid when cleaning it. Firstly, you should not soak this gemstone in water. Secondly, you should keep the stone away from soap, detergents, and chemical cleaners. These can react with the minerals inside lapis lazuli and strip away its natural polish or any color treatments. 

Also, refrain from using ultrasonic or steam cleaners. These cleaning methods are too harsh and can cause cracking, fading, or permanent damage. Apart from this, you should never use hard brushes, abrasive cloths, or scrubbing pads. These can cause scratches on the stone.

If you’re unsure about how to clean a lapis lazuli crystal having cracks or very stubborn dirt, then consult a jeweler for professional cleaning.

For read more details about healing factors of lapis lazuli: explore Healing Properties and Benefits of Lapis Lazuli: Meaning, Chakra, Uses & Care.

How to Take Care of Lapis Lazuli Jewelry Daily

Always put on lapis lazuli jewelry after applying makeup, perfume, or hair products. That’s because chemicals in these products can slowly damage the stone’s surface. If you’re doing any activity that involves sweat or water, then ensure to remove the jewelry. Water, sweat, and friction can disrupt the stone’s surface over time.

After wearing, gently wipe the jewelry with a soft, dry cloth to remove oils and dust. This simple habit helps maintain the stone’s natural shine.

How to Store Lapis Lazuli Properly

You should always store lapis lazuli separately from harder gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, or quartz. These stones are hard and can easily scratch lapis if they come into contact. You can use a soft fabric pouch, velvet-lined box, or padded jewelry case to store this gemstone. This prevents friction and protects it from accidental bumps or scratches. Another thing to keep in mind is to keep this gemstone in a cool, dry place, away from humidity, moisture, and direct sunlight.

Lapis Lazuli Care Tips for Jewelry Makers and Collectors

Whether you’re getting a lapis lazuli for jewelry making, healing, or simply for collection purposes, a little care goes a long way. Here’s how you can keep this gemstone looking fresh and beautiful for years:

Choose Protective Jewelry Designs: When working with lapis lazuli, opt for settings that offer extra protection, such as bezel or partial bezel settings. These help shield the stone’s edges and surface from chipping and everyday wear.

Avoid Heat and Harsh Treatments During Setting: Lapis lazuli is sensitive to heat and chemicals. Hence, you should avoid using high heat, chemical dips, or aggressive polishing methods during setting or repairs. These can damage the stone or alter its color.

Handle Lapis Lazuli with Clean, Dry Hands: Make sure that your hands are clean and dry before holding this gemstone. That’s because lapis lazuli can easily absorb oils, sweat, and moisture. It affects its appearance over time, especially for those who wear this gemstone daily. 

Store Finished Pieces and Loose Stones Separately: Keep finished jewelry and loose lapis lazuli stones stored individually in soft pouches or padded containers. This prevents scratching and preserves the stone’s surface quality.

Clean Gently Before Display or Storage: Before displaying or storing lapis lazuli pieces, gently wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water or cleaning agents to maintain the stone’s natural polish and integrity.

Monitor Color and Surface Changes Over Time: If you’re a collector, then periodically check lapis lazuli for changes in color, dullness, or surface wear. Early detection allows for preventive care and helps maintain the stone’s long-term value.

Keeping Your Lapis Lazuli Beautiful for Years

Lapis lazuli is an elegant gemstone. But to preserve its charm for years, you should know how to care for lapis lazuli. You should focus on proper cleaning and safe storage. In addition to this, watch for any signs of discoloration, fading, or cracks. By taking such simple precautions, you can keep this gemstone timeless for longer. Though lapis lazuli is a soft stone, the right care can keep it shining forever in your collection.

FAQs About Lapis Lazuli Care

Can lapis lazuli get wet?

Yes, lapis lazuli is a porous gemstone and can absorb water very easily. It can handle brief contact with water, but it should not be soaked or exposed to water regularly. 

Is lapis lazuli a durable stone for everyday jewelry?

Lapis lazuli is moderately soft, ranking about 5–5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. Hence, it’s best suited for occasional wear rather than daily-use jewelry like rings or bracelets. If you want to wear it daily, then opt for protective settings. 

How to take care of lapis lazuli in the long term?

After every wear, clean your lapis lazuli jewelry and store it safely in a dry place. If you use this gemstone for healing, then perform energy cleansing at least twice a month. 

Can lapis lazuli be cleaned with soap or chemicals?

No, soap and chemical cleaners should be avoided. These substances can react with the minerals in lapis lazuli and damage its surface or fade its color.

Does lapis lazuli fade over time?

Yes, lapis lazuli can fade if exposed to sunlight, heat, water, or chemicals for long periods. But if you store this gemstone properly, then you can easily preserve its natural color and shine.

How can you tell if lapis lazuli has been treated?

Many lapis lazuli stones are dyed or waxed to enhance their color. If a stone is treated, then it generally includes uneven coloring, overly glossy surface, and color transfer when wiped with a damp cloth.