Frequently asked questions

• Is dumortierite the same as sodalite or lapis lazuli?

  No. Dumortierite is an aluminum borosilicate, while sodalite is a sodium aluminum silicate and lapis lazuli is a rock composed mainly of lazurite with calcite and pyrite. All three can present as deep blue, which is why they get confused at the bead bench. Dumortierite tends toward a more uniform denim-to-navy blue with subtle fibrous streaking and no pyrite inclusions or white calcite veining. It is also harder than sodalite (Mohs 7 vs. 5.5–6) and lacks the brassy metallic flecks that lapis is known for. If a strand is sold simply as 'blue stone,' ask which mineral is in the bag.
• Is dumortierite treated or dyed?

  Dumortierite is typically sold untreated — its blue comes from the mineral itself, not from dye. That said, some material on the market is quartz heavily included with dumortierite fibers (sometimes called blue quartz or dumortierite-in-quartz), which is a different look and a different price point. Occasional dyed substitutes also circulate under loose 'blue stone' labels. Treatment, if any — ask before buying if it isn't specified. For Mohs 7 dumortierite with no dye, color is stable against light, water, and normal wear.
• What kind of jewelry does dumortierite work best in?

  At Mohs 7, dumortierite handles the full range of stringing projects — bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and even ring components with reasonable protection. The denim-blue palette reads well as a substitute for lapis in lower-contrast designs, and pairs cleanly with sterling, oxidized silver, brass, and warm metals like rose gold. Smaller rounds (4–6mm) work for delicate layering strands and spacer runs; 8–10mm rounds carry focal weight in single-strand necklaces and chunky bracelets; rondelles and faceted cuts add light play next to matte accents. The cool blue also balances warm stones like carnelian, citrine, and sunstone in mixed-bead designs.
• How should I care for finished dumortierite pieces?

  Dumortierite is durable enough for daily wear, but treat it like any Mohs 7 stone: it can scratch softer materials and be scratched by quartz dust, topaz, and harder gems. Clean with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth or brush; rinse and pat dry. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for solid, untreated material, but skip them if the strand contains fractures, composite material, or anything you suspect has been stabilized. Avoid prolonged exposure to harsh solvents, bleach, and strong acids. Store separately from harder stones to prevent surface abrasion on polished beads.
• Why does dumortierite vary in color from strand to strand?

  Dumortierite ranges from pale violet-blue through denim to nearly black-blue depending on iron content, fiber density, and the host rock it formed in. Material from Brazil, Madagascar, Namibia, the USA, and France each shows slightly different character — some strands run more uniform, others show pale streaks, white quartz veining, or darker fibrous patches. For projects that need close color matching across multiple strands, order together when possible and expect some lot-to-lot variation. Origin and tone for a specific lot should be disclosed; ask before buying if matching is critical to your design.