Lapis Nugget is a mining drop obtained when using a pickaxe less than netherite to mine lapis ore. 9 lapis nuggets can be crafted into 1 lapis lazuli.
Stone Pickaxe = 2-4 lapis nuggets
Gold Pickaxe = 2-10 lapis nuggets
Iron Pickaxe = 6-12 lapis nuggets
Diamond Pickaxe = 50% chance to drop 10-16 nuggets (otherwise drops lapis lazuli)