Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is a beautiful blue gemstone that has been highly prized for its color and symbolism for thousands of years. 

Photo owner: Auralene

Here's more information about Lapis Lazuli:

Color and Appearance: Lapis Lazuli is known for its deep, rich blue color, often with flecks or veins of white calcite and shimmering specks of golden pyrite. This combination of colors gives it a unique and captivating appearance.

Composition: Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of the minerals lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. The blue color is attributed to the presence of lazurite.

Historical Significance: Lapis Lazuli has been used for centuries in jewelry, decorative objects, and artwork. It was highly valued in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. The stone was often associated with royalty, power, and spirituality.

Symbolism and Meaning: Lapis Lazuli is associated with qualities like wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. It's often considered a stone of communication, helping individuals express themselves clearly and confidently.

Uses: Lapis Lazuli is commonly used in jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. It's also used for carving intricate designs, creating cameos, and inlaying into other materials.

Metaphysical Properties: In metaphysical beliefs, Lapis Lazuli is believed to enhance self-awareness, encourage inner truth, and stimulate intellectual abilities. It's also thought to have calming and stress-relieving properties.

Locations: Lapis Lazuli is found in several locations around the world, including Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, and parts of the United States.

Care: Lapis Lazuli is a relatively soft stone, so it should be handled and stored carefully to avoid scratches. To clean, use a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.

Art and History: Lapis Lazuli has been used as a pigment for creating the color ultramarine in paintings. It was used by famous artists like Michelangelo and Vermeer to achieve vibrant blue hues in their artworks.

Imitation and Enhancements: Due to its popularity, synthetic and imitation lapis are common. Additionally, some lapis lazuli is treated or dyed to enhance its color, so it's important to buy from reputable sources.

When purchasing Lapis Lazuli, choose trusted dealers and jewelers to ensure the authenticity and quality of the stone.