Lazulite (MgAl₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂) is a magnesium-aluminum phosphate forming intense blue prismatic crystals in metamorphosed quartz veins. Not to be confused with lazurite (the blue feldspathoid in lapis lazuli). Lazulite forms a continuous solid-solution series with scorzalite (Fe end-member). Yukon (Canada) and Werfen (Austria) supply iconic specimens.
Key Facts
- Mohs hardness 5.5–6.
- Monoclinic; pyramidal and tabular crystals with diagnostic deep blue color.
- Forms continuous series with scorzalite (Fe endmember).
- Different from lazurite (the blue feldspathoid in lapis lazuli) — same color, totally different chemistry.
- Forms in metamorphosed quartz-pelite assemblages.
Notable Localities
Rapid Creek (Yukon, Canada) yields gem crystals. Werfen (Austria) is the type-locality. Graves Mountain (Georgia, USA) supplies American material.
Found at these Localities
- Rapid Creek (Yukon) (育空地区急流溪磷酸盐产地)
