Lapis lazuli is a stunning gemstone that captivates the mind and entrances the senses. The rich, deep colors of this ancient stone draw you in with their magical beauty.
In this article we will try to cover all facts about Lapis lazuli gemstones. We cover these topics:
- What is Lapis Lazuli?
- How a Lapis Lazuli Forms?
- Lapis Lazuli Mineral Compostition
- Lapis Lazuli Characteristics
- The History of Lapis Lazuli
- Where is Lapis Lazuli Mined?
- How to Identify Lapis Lazuli?
- How is Lapis Lazuli Used?
- The Beauty of Lapis Lazuli Jewelry
- The Meaning of Lapis Lazuli Engagement Rings
- Choosing a Lapis Lazuli Engagement Ring
- Frequently Asked Questions About Lapis Lazuli
- Caring for Lapis Lazuli
- Spirituality
What is Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis lazuli is a stunning blue metamorphic rock gemstone known for its deep, intense color. Its name originates from a Persian word, lazhuward, which means “blue,” which is fitting since this stone is beloved for its distinctive colorations. While the rich blue color is the dominant trait of lapis lazuli, it’s also known for the red, white, and golden hues that swim deep within the stone. The base composition of the stone itself is a mixture of numerous minerals, including pyrite, calcite, and lazurite.
Other minerals that are sometimes present within the precious gemstone are mica, feldspar, amphibole, and diopside. Many lapis lazuli appear to have white or golden flecks throughout that can resemble clouds or gold. These designs are due to calcite and pyrite, which attach to the base minerals during formation.
The deeper the blue coloration, the more valuable the lapis lazuli, with those exhibiting no visible calcite designs being the most sought-after. While the blue color is often referred to as marine blue, midnight, royal, or indigo, it can exhibit medium to dark hues of violet or even green.
While the pureness of the stone’s coloring often determines its value, many people prefer a lapis lazuli that contains golden flecks or milky white streaks as they make the gemstone appear more interesting.
How a Lapis Lazuli Forms?
While lapis lazuli is composed of a mixture of minerals, it is actually considered a rock. The stone forms along igneous intrusions, where hydrothermal or contact metamorphism alters the marble or limestone. Lazurite then replaces a portion of the host rocks, developing preferentially within its layers or bands.
While lazurite is the main mineral, it also contains pyrite, calcite, diopside, dolomite, mica, afghanite, wollastonite, hauyne, sodalite, and a host of other minerals. For a stone to be considered a lapis lazuli, it must be blue and be composed of at least 25% blue lazurite.
Lapis Lazuli Mineral Compostition
As stated earlier a lapis lazuli contains the following mineral percentages:
- lazurite (25% to 40%,)
- calcite (20% to 40%)
- pyrite (5% to 10%)
- sodalite (5% to 10%)
- along with other trace minerals.
The density of this opaque stone ranges from 2.7 to 3.0 g/cm3.
Lapis Lazuli Characteristics
Lapis Lazuli is one of the most breathtaking gemstones due to its deep, rich blue hues and golden and white patterns. The characteristics of this unique stone are as follows:
Color
Deep azure blue with violet or green hues. Some stones contain golden flecks or white veining.
Transparency
Usually it is opaque, meaning that light does not pass through it. The minerals such as lazurite, calcite, and pyrite contribute to its opaque appearance.
Size
Lapis lazuli gemstones come in a variety of sizes ranging from a few millimeters to over 12 inches.
Hardness
The hardness level is between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale.
Shape and Cut
Due to its coloration, lapis lazuli can easily be cut into various shapes for jewelry and decor.
Refractive Index
Lapis lazuli’s refractive index ranges from 1.50 to 1.67.
Treatments
These gemstones don’t typically undergo any treatments, but they may be dyed to improve their color.
Density
The density of a lapiz lazuli gemstone is between 2.7 and 3.0 g/cm3.
The History of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli has been a treasured gemstone since 7,000 B.C. Originally discovered in the West Hindu-Kush Mountains of what is now known as Afghanistan, it was favored by ancient Egyptians for use in ornaments and amulets. It even appears in burial sites from before 3,000 B.C. it was believed to hold medicinal properties and was often ground down and applied to ulcers and boils.
It was also used in paintings until the 19th century, when synthetic pigments grew in popularity. Today, this gemstone is still a favorite among spiritualists and jewelers due to its vibrant colors and mesmerizing designs.
Where is Lapis Lazuli Mined?
While Afghanistan remains one of the most common places for lapis lazuli mining, it is found in a host of other locations, including:
- United States
- Russia
- Chile
- Canada
- Mongolia
How to Identify Lapis Lazuli?
Due to its popularity, it’s not uncommon to encounter fake or synthetic lapis lazuli being sold as a natural stone. Here are a few tips for identifying real lapis lazuli.
Visual Comparison
Fake lapis lazuli can appear more opaque and one-dimensional than the real stone, which often has gold flakes and white imperfections.
Color
Real lapis lazuli is a deep blue but may contain shades of green or violet.
Hardness
It has a 5 to 6 hardness rating.
If you’re unsure whether your lapis lazuli is natural, always consult with a professional jeweler who can further inspect the stone for authenticity.
How is Lapis Lazuli Used?
Due to its breathtaking coloration, this gemstone is highly sought-after. There are many ways to showcase the depth and beauty of this mystical gemstone.
Jewelry
Lapis lazuli is popular for use in jewelry, including within rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Spiritual Work and Meditation
Spiritualists adore this gemstone for the metaphysical properties they believe it holds.
Gifts and Keepsakes
It is the perfect gift for friends and loved ones and is often given during holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries.
The Beauty of Lapis Lazuli Jewelry
Lapis Lazuli is one of the most eye-catching gemstones due to its vibrant blue hues and golden and white designs. Its hardness level makes it perfect for jewelry that engulfs the senses.
Engagement Rings
Your love demands an engagement ring that goes beyond the ordinary, which is why distinctive partners choose lapis lazuli.
Wedding Rings
For a ring that lasts as long as your love, turn to the bewitching colorations and magical designs within this unique stone. Picking a Lapis Lazuli Wedding Ring can be difficult, be sure when choosing to look at the gemstone cut, shape and pick one based on the all the factors – a thing to consider is type of metal as well.
Necklaces
Grab attention and turn heads with the dreamy vibrancy of a Lapis Lazuli Necklace.
Earrings
September Birthstone earrings are still a popular choice for a gift inspired by thousands of years of jewelry history. Even if you aren’t a September born, be sure to check the blue beauty of Lapiz Lazuli Earrings.
Bracelets
A Lapis Lazuli Bracelet is sophistication personified and allow you to showcase your exceptional taste.
Anklets
Add some fun to any outfit with a brilliant Lapis Lazuli Anklet.
The Meaning of Lapis Lazuli Engagement Rings
While there’s no denying the innate beauty of a lapis lazuli engagement ring, the stone is highly symbolic and the perfect way to showcase your love. Lapis lazuli engagement rings are believed to symbolize communication, wisdom, and truth, vital components of any long-lasting relationship.
Choosing a Lapis Lazuli Engagement Ring
When choosing a lapis lazuli engagement ring, you want to choose one that personifies your love. To ensure you select the perfect gemstone, consider the following factors.
The Setting
One can get it in numerous settings that highlight the vibrancy of the stone. When selecting a setting, choose one that plays on the brilliant colors. Popular options include hexagons, shields, and kites.
The Shape and Size
The shape and size of an engagement ring is highly dependent on the wearer. When selecting a stone, consider their personal preference and lifestyle.
The Metal
Many metals bring out the stunning blues of lapis lazuli. Some of the most popular are silver, gold, and platinum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lapis Lazuli
Is it OK to wear lapis lazuli?
Lapis lazuli is one of the most popular stones for use in jewelry and accessories and is completely safe to wear. According to spiritualists, wearing the stone on a daily basis can help with confidence and self-discovery, which can lead to empowerment and personal growth.
How can you tell if lapis lazuli is real?
Since lapis lazuli is a highly sought-after stone, it is possible to encounter fake or synthetic pieces. While speaking to a jeweler is the best way to determine if your gemstone is natural, you can also inspect it for yourself. Real lapis lazuli exhibits a depth of color, with a vibrant blue as the primary hue. It will also have golden flakes or milky white designs scattered throughout in varying densities.
Is lapis lazuli and expensive stone?
Compared to many other precious gemstones, lapis lazuli is surprisingly affordable, especially when considering how beautiful the stone is. While the purest varieties can be fairly expensive, the more common pieces are highly affordable.
Why is lapis lazuli so special?
Civilizations have revered lapis lazuli as a staple stone for millennia, adoring it as royalty and the highest-class members of society. In ancient times, people revered the stone for its believed spiritual and metaphysical properties, which repelled evil and brought safety to the wearer. In modern times, people choose them for its unique and breathtaking beauty, which exhibits a vibrancy and depth of color unlike any other gemstone.
Is lapis lazuli good for jewelry?
Yes, due to its hardness rating of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, lapis lazuli is an excellent stone for many different types of jewelry. It’s a favorite for engagement and wedding rings but is also popular in bracelets, necklaces, and anklets.
What is the rarest color of lapis lazuli?
The deeper the blue coloration of the lapis lazuli, the more rare and sought-after the stone. The designs within the gemstone also contribute to its value, with calcite forming the appearance of dark grey clouds, being the rarest.
Can you wear lapis lazuli everyday?
Lapis lazuli is considered a highly durable gemstone, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. While it can withstand daily wear, it is important to properly care for the stone to ensure its safety. Avoid wearing it when handling harsh chemicals or cleaners, and refrain from hitting, scratching, or banging it against another hard object. To clean the stone, use warm, soapy water and a damp sponge, wiping away any dirt or grime that has accumulated on the surface. With proper care, jewelry with this gemstone can last for generations.
Can I sleep with a lapis lazuli bracelet?
Yes, lapis lazuli jewelry is safe to wear while sleeping and is considered beneficial by spiritualists to aid in peaceful rest. It is also thought to help with dream work for those who are seeking to delve more into that mystical art.
Is there a difference between lapis and lapis lazuli?
Lapis and lapis lazuli are the same thing, a gemstone formed from blue metamorphosis rock. This stone is used in a variety of ways, including in jewelry, as pigment for paintings, and within ornaments and decor.
Does lapis lazuli glow?
Lapis lazuli does exhibit three thermoluminescent peaks around 140, 260, and 370 degrees celsius. Although it is possible to make the stone glow, you can only obtain these temperatures with specialized equipment.
Caring for Lapis Lazuli
It is a fairly easy gemstone to care for, only requiring warm, soapy water and a damp cloth to clean. Never use steam or ultrasound cleaners, as they can damage the stone. When traveling, store in a secured case and avoid contact with other jewelry. As with all precious gemstones, never allow this gem to come in contact with harsh chemicals or alcohol.
Spirituality
For millennia, people have turned to it for its spiritual properties. While the colors and designs enter the senses, this gemstone is renowned for its metaphysical and spiritual benefits. Spiritualists use the mystical gemstone for healing of the spirit, mind, and body. It’s used to open the third eye and throat chakras, bringing clarity, understanding, and wisdom. This metamorhpic semi-precious stone is also beloved for its protection against negative energy and is popularly used with dream work and for helping overcome worry.
Spiritualists use it by wearing it close to their skin, traditionally within jewelry. They believe direct skin-to-stone contact raises vibrations continually, warding off psychic attacks. It’s also commonly placed throughout the home, office, or car to aid in communication. Those using the gemstone for dreamwork prefer to place it beneath their pillow to encourage the stone’s mystical powers.
Placing or pressing this blue gemstone on the throat is thought to cleanse any blockages in the third eye or throat chakras, leading to greater clarity.
