Ancient Civilizations: Lapis Lazuli has been mined in Afghanistan for over 6,000 years and was highly valued by ancient civilizations including the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. It was often used in jewelry, carvings, and as a pigment for ultramarine blue in art.
Cultural Importance: In ancient Egypt, Lapis Lazuli was a symbol of royalty and gods, used extensively in the funeral mask of Tutankhamun. It was also ground into powder and used as eyeshadow by Egyptian women.
Physical Characteristics
Color: The most sought-after Lapis Lazuli stones are an intense blue with specks of golden pyrite, which can give them a starry appearance.
Composition: It is composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, along with calcite, sodalite, and pyrite. The quality of the stone is determined by the amount of lazurite it contains.
Hardness: On the Mohs scale of hardness, Lapis Lazuli typically ranks around 5 to 5.5, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones.
Uses and Applications
Jewelry: Lapis Lazuli is commonly used in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Its vibrant color and historical prestige make it a popular choice for statement pieces.
Decorative Items: Beyond jewelry, Lapis Lazuli is also used for inlays, mosaics, and ornamental carvings. Its rich color adds a touch of elegance and luxury to any piece.
Healing Properties: In the realm of crystal healing, Lapis Lazuli is believed to promote wisdom, truth, and inner power. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices.
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning: Due to its relative softness, Lapis Lazuli should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Storage: Store Lapis Lazuli jewelry separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. Keeping it in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box is recommended.