These are just some easy ways to make Lapis more useful then dying and making blocks:

1. Tools
Makes tools out of the lapis (lasts as long as stone but is a bit stronger)

Pros:
More use
Easy tools

Cons:
Abundant sources of lapis

2. Lapis Apples
Gold apples instead with Lapis (Gives you speed for 20 seconds)

Pros:
Quicker movement
More use for apples
Easier speed

Cons:
May not be enough for 1 per ore ( Not like this matters much)

3. Lapis Armor
Make armor thats in between the strength of leather and iron.

Pros:
A mid ranged strength armor

Cons:
None

4. BLUE BERRY PANCAKES
Like cocoa beans, use this to make a food (Same crafting idea as cookies except with lapis, restores 3 bars of hunger)

Pros:
More food
Pancakes, duh.
AGAIN, PANCAKES

Cons:
A little bit to much hunger restoration
The idea of eating it may sound strange

That was it, I hope that something happens to my idea and that you take the time to read it, peace.