The Allure of Ultramarine Blue: A Color Worth Its Weight in Gold
Ultramarine blue, often called “true blue,” was once considered more precious than gold. Back in 1824, a synthetic version known as French ultramarine made this stunning color easier to obtain. However, the natural form of ultramarine blue, made from lapis lazuli, can still fetch over $60 per ounce today.
Lapis lazuli is a striking blue stone mainly found in Afghanistan. Recently, there has been uncertainty surrounding the future of the world’s largest lapis lazuli mine. So, what makes this remarkable color so special, and why are collectors willing to pay a premium for it?
