Lapis lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock that has been used for centuries as a gemstone, pigment and ornamental stone. It is composed mainly of the mineral lazurite, with minor amounts of other minerals such as pyrite, calcite and sodalite. Lapis lazuli is found in many locations around the world, but the finest quality stones come from Afghanistan. The color of lapis lazuli ranges from a deep royal blue to a lighter sky blue. The stone can be polished to create jewelry or used in its natural form for decorative purposes.