The Beauty and History of Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli or simply lapis as it is also called, is honored as being the oldest gemstone used by man. Objects made from lapis have been unearthed from archaeological explorations in Egypt and Greece. Even the famous golden mask recovered from the tomb of King Tutankhamun contained superb inlay work of lapis and other precious and semi precious stones. Throughout history, civilizations have attributed some very positive and beneficial powers to this stone. For those with a flair for astrology, this blue stone is associated with the signs of Sagittarius and Libra, and Neptune and Venus. It is also believed to help teachers and guides, and all those who seek to impart knowledge and wisdom to others. Lapis helps improve our awareness of issues that confront us internally, as well as our awareness of our environment and those around us. It is believed to enhance our wisdom and creativity, and heightens the sense of insight that we possess. For believers, lapis is said to improve their psychic powers, overcome depression, and achieve a balance in the yin and yang energies. In general, many consider this stone to be protective of the wearer from physical and psychological dangers. When it comes to meditation, it is believed that holding on to a piece of lapis helps one in the visualization process by serving as a deep blue focal point of concentration. Lapis is believed to help a person be truthful, open, intuitive, and powerful. A wide range of believers have commented on its ability to strengthen the physique and spirit thereby aiding in one’s spiritual evolution, and in connecting with the heavens. It is considered to be a calming influence in our daily lives, and brings better organization to our routines. It helps the wearer connect with the spirits from the world beyond ours. It is useful for people who are shy and awkward because it helps build self-confidence. It is believed to strengthen the bonds of marriage by enhancing love and fidelity.

As noted earlier, lapis is considered to be the oldest gemstone used by man. Historical records show that it was used in jewelry and to create amulets and ornaments by the Assyrians, Babylonians and the Egyptians. This dark blue gem was cherished by the Pharaohs of Egypt, and several objects made from lapis have been found in various historical sites around the country. This love for the stone stemmed from its physical beauty as much as it did from their belief in the mystical powers of this stone. This explains why it was used so frequently for making sculptures, amulets, ornaments, jewelry and carvings throughout history. In addition, the Romans also believed that this stone was an aphrodisiac. The ancient Egyptian texts also make mention of this stone. It has been mentioned in the Egyptian instructions book for the afterlife – the Book of the Dead. The combination of an eye carved from lapis and set in gold was considered to be an extremely powerful amulet and symbol in the afterlife.

Lapis has a deep blue color with tiny flecks of gold. It has often been compared to a clear, dark star-lit sky. Two key minerals – lazurite and sodalite – are responsible for the blue color of the stone. In addition, most lapis specimens also contain varying amounts of hauynite, calcite and pyrites. The calcite and pyrites are worth of a brief discussion here. The gold flecks seen on the surface of the stone are pyrites. When the stone is cut, the pyrites are oxidized by the heat of friction, and a foul odor is released. Calcite sometimes appears in the stone as white patches or streaks. When used in a sterling pendant and other jewelry, lapis is usually cut as a smooth cab as opposed to facets.