Mined in the mountains of South America, this gem-quality pigment is an opulent blue. There is not a hint of gray in this paint, with a classic, concentrated blue that is vibrant and light reflective (due to the irregular and angular shape of the pigment particles). A touch of golden pyrite as an inclusion adds a delightful shimmer. The result is an elegant, almost three-dimensional effect that is completely different from the predictable blue of synthetic ultramarine pigments. Our Genuine Lapis Lazuli is at least 80% pure gem pigment suspended in a natural binder.