Lapis Lazuli gemstone is famous the world over and has been much loved for thousands of years because of the unique and stunning deep blue colour. The Lapis Lazuli stone has many different nicknames and can be commonly named Marine blue, Royal, Midnight and Indigo. It is obvious from that, that the stone may come in many different shades of blue, although normally it is a medium to dark in tone. The Lapis Lazuli stone is made up from a collection of three minerals, Lazurite, Pyrite and Calcite. The Lazurite mineral is what gives the Lapis Lazuli it’s treasured blue colour. With flecks of gold sometimes present through out its easy to see why this stone is so loved.
Where In The World Would You Find Lapis Lazuli?
The Lapis Lazuli stone is mainly mined today in Afghanistan. Although some stones have also been found in Chile, Argentina, and Canada. You can also find small deposits of the stone in Italy, Burma, Siberia, Russia, Pakistan and India.
The Lapis Lazuli Stones History
The Lapis Lazuli stone has been a popular gemstone and widely used for more than 6,500years. The name Lapis Lazuli comes from the Latin word lapis, meaning “Stone” and the Persian word Lazhuward which translates to blue. This stone was very popular with the ancient Egyptians who also used powdered Lapis Lazuli pigment to make eyeshadow and medicines. Cleopatra famously wore the blue eyeshadow that was made up from the Lapis Lazuli pigmentation. Lazpis Lazuli was also heavily present on the golden sarcophagus of King Tutankhamen. The garments of priests and royalty were also dyed with the Lapis Lazuli pigment and the royal dark colour blue soon became a status piece worn by the most powerful and influential people. Lapis Lazuli stone was also rumoured to be the inspiration behind the classic book the girl with the pearl earring.
The Meaning Behind the Lapiz Lazuli Stone
The Lazpis Lazuli has lots of positive aspects and meaning behind it. It is believed that by wearing this stone you will have a greater desire to learn, seek the truth and have a better understanding. It is said to aid the wearer with all aspects of learning and seeking knowledge. Ancient Egyptians believed that this stone helped the soul reach Immortality and that it would open the wearer`s heart to great love. As a Royal Stone is was said to contain the souls of ancient gods.
Lapis Lazuli Aftercare and Cleaning
The Lapis Lazuli stone has a very low rating of 3.5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning this stone is fairly fragile and care should be taken when wearing. As this stone is more delicate than others you must protect it and look after it in the best way possible. You should not sleep wearing any Lapis Lazuli stone jewellery as this can cause scratches and damage so it would be advisable to say that this stone isn't suited to daily wear. You should avoid coming into any contact with chemicals whilst wearing and should clean with a mild soap, soft cloth and warm water. You should also make sure that any Lapiz Lazuli stone jewellery is stored correctly when not in use it should be wrapped in a soft cloth, in a fabric-lined jewellery box away from any other jewellery. If you follow these basic guidelines then you will guarantee a long life from your Lapis Lazuli jewellery.
How Lapis Lazuli is Used in Jewellery
Lapis Lazuli has been used for many years for lots of different purposes; however, it stands out the most in jewellery. Once the Lapis Lazuli has been polished and set in gold there is no denying just how stunning this vibrant blue gem looks. Even the smallest of Lapis Lazuli stones look dazzling when set into delicate drop earrings and pendants. The Lapis Lazuli stone is the traditional birthstone for December so would make a stunning gift for a special birthday. It is also given on the 7 th and 9 th wedding anniversary, Any Jewellery with the Lapis Lazuli stone would look fantastic, with its royal blue colours you know that you will have a classic piece that will stand the test of time and suit any look from day to night. Rich, Elegant and Regal and the perfect words to describe any jewellery lucky enough to have the Lapis Lazuli stone on it.