Lapis Lazuli
Fine lapis is prized for rich blue colour, but some natural white calcite or pyrite can be part of its character. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common…
Read guide →Editorial guides
Form: <span>Carving</span>
Mineralogy, identification, care, lapidary craft, interiors and documented cultural history—with traditional beliefs clearly labelled as a separate subject.
Obsidian
Freshly broken obsidian can have razor-sharp conchoidal fractures, a reminder that it is glass rather than crystalline quartz. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common treatments, authenticity notes…
Read guide →Howlite
Natural howlite is white to cream with irregular grey veining. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common treatments, authenticity notes and traditional associations.
Read guide →Serpentine
Green serpentine can resemble jade visually while being geologically distinct and usually softer. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common treatments, authenticity notes and traditional associations.
Read guide →Shungite
Usually matte to semi-metallic black, with higher-carbon pieces appearing shinier. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common treatments, authenticity notes and traditional associations.
Read guide →Dalmatian Stone
The cream base with dark spots explains the dog-inspired trade name. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common treatments, authenticity notes and traditional associations.
Read guide →Onyx
A useful example of why trade names and mineral identity are not always the same thing. Learn its mineral identity, hardness, care, common treatments, authenticity notes and traditional…
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