The Beauty and Allure of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli, sometimes referred to as lapis, is one of the most well-known rocks in the world. Its vibrant blue hue has been captivating people for centuries. From ancient times to the present, the stone has played a significant role in art, culture, and fashion. The name comes from the Latin word lapis, which means “stone,” and the Arabic word for blue: azula.
What Makes Up Lapis Lazuli?
Unlike many gemstones, lapis is not a mineral but a rock composed of many minerals. It is mainly composed of a blue silicate mineral from the sodalite group called lazurite. Other minerals may be present, including:
- Calcite
- Pyrite
- Sodalite
- Hauyne
- Wollastonite
- Afghanite
- Mica
- Diopside
How is Lapis Lazuli Formed?
The stone is formed near igneous intrusions through a metamorphic process with limestone. Under conditions of high temperature and pressure, the lazurite mineral replaces portions of the limestone. Over time, the lazurite crystals grow and combine with other minerals to create lapis.
How Does Lapis Get its Blue Coloring?
To be considered lapis lazuli, the rock must be at least 25% blue lazurite, as this is what gives the stone the electrifying blue color it is known for. White calcite is usually the second most prominent mineral in the stone and can present as layers, fractures, or molting. When calcite is finely intermixed with lazurite, the rock will have a denim blue coloring instead of bright blue.
Hardness and Durability of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, ranking at only a 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. This means harder materials can easily scratch it, and it must be carefully handled to avoid damage. Despite the softness, the stone is quite durable when properly cared for and can retain its beauty for centuries.
Lapis Luster and Transparency
Lapis has a waxy to vitreous luster and is opaque. The presence of pyrite inclusions can give the stone a glittering appearance, enhancing its visual appeal.
Where is Lapis Found?
For centuries, the Badakhshan area of Afghanistan has been the top destination for finding this dazzling gemstone. However, it can also be found in parts of Chile, Russia, Canada, Myanmar, and China. In the United States, you can discover this healing crystal in Colorado and San Bernadino County, California.
History of Lapis Lazuli
The legends of this stone are among some of the oldest in the world. Throughout history, lapis has been imbued with rich symbolism and mythology. Highly treasured by ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, Greece, and Rome, lapis has been used for everything from hand-carved amulets to eyeshadow.
Lapis Lazuli in the Bible
In the Bible, lapis is mentioned, but it is referred to as ‘sapphire,’ as many back then mistook lapis for the blue sapphire gemstone we are familiar with today. However, historians agree that sapphire was not discovered until the Roman Empire, and therefore, these people were likely using lapis lazuli.
Ancient Civilizations and Lapis Lazuli
In Ancient Persia, warriors used lapis as a talisman, thinking it would bring them success, protection, and courage in battle. In Ancient Egypt, it was associated with the heavens and used to create jewelry and amulets that would guide one into the afterlife. One of the most famous artifacts containing lapis is the funeral mask of King Tutankhamun (or King Tut), which features inlays of the stone.
Lapis Lazuli in Medieval Europe
One of the best-known uses of lapis is the ceiling painting of the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo used lapis powder to create the blue colors seen in the paintings. Other notable artists of the Renaissance and Baroque eras, including Masaccio, Perugino, Titian, and Vermeer, used the color to paint the clothing of the Virgin Mary in many of their famous paintings.
In Medieval Europe, lapis was also believed to have healing powers and was used in medicinal preparations. It was thought to ward off evil spirits and protect anyone who used the stone.
How Do People Use Lapis Lazuli Today?
Lapis remains as prized in modern days as it was in ancient societies. People use the stone to create items such as:
- Gemstone jewelry
- Carvings
- Boxes
- Mosaics
- Ornaments
- Small statues
- Vases
Although a chemically identical synthetic paint has since been created, you can still purchase lapis lazuli pigments to use in paintings. The crystal is also purchased for its physical, emotional, and metaphysical properties.
Physical Healing Benefits of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis is a highly soothing stone. It’s a great booster for the immune system when you feel slow, sluggish, or just out of step with life. When this happens, try meditating with the healing stone or holding it and repeating a mantra such as, “I take the lead in my own life” or “I am in control of my life and my purpose.” These actions can give you the boost of energy and motivation you need.
The radiant gemstone is also known to help with depression, insomnia, and vertigo. It brings both physical and mental balance to the body, which can positively affect your ability to remain healthy and energetic.
Emotional Healing with Lapis
Lapis is regarded as a stone of empowerment. It can be a great tool for helping you to trust your gut and make decisions. It’s also a highly motivating stone, so when you do come to a decision, lapis lazuli will give you the boost needed to follow that path and achieve your goals.
If you are looking to build more self-confidence, working with lapis can be an excellent place to start. The crystal’s healing powers can help one feel more authentic, confident, and able to put themselves out there. Because of this, it is known to strengthen existing relationships and help you forge new ones.
Third-Eye Chakra Healing with Lapis Lazuli
Lapis is most closely connected with the third-eye chakra, known as the eye of consciousness. It is heavily motivated by key elements that make up who we are at our core. These include:
- Intuition
- Wisdom
- Insight
- Knowledge
When your third eye is blocked, you may find it difficult to concentrate, connect with others, or maintain a level head in stressful situations. Stress, illness, and emotional upset can close your third-eye chakra even further.
Opening Your Third-Eye Chakra with Lapis
On the other hand, an open third-eye chakra can feel like you have intuitive abilities and a deep understanding of your purpose. To open the third-eye chakra, follow these steps for an intuitive meditation practice with lapis:
- Lay down on your back in a comfortable position
- Place the lapis stone on your third-eye chakra. This energy center is found on your forehead, right between the eyes.
- Utilize a visualization technique of your choosing. We recommend one in which you see yourself achieving all the goals you have set.
- Finish the visualization when you feel ready
- Seal in the visualization meditation using a mantra like “I exist in my highest power.”
Try doing this ritual once daily and see if you begin to notice changes in your sixth sense and decision-making abilities.
Lapis Lazuli and the Throat Chakra
A blocked throat chakra can lead to many communication issues. You may feel like you are being ignored or misunderstood or are shying away from sharing your feelings altogether.
The lapis stone can assist with honest communication and compassion. It allows you to speak your truth while considering others’ feelings. Telling the truth can be difficult sometimes, but this healing stone helps one find the courage to do so.
Lapis and Healing Throat Issues
While lapis is associated with the third-eye chakra, it can have a plethora of physical and emotional healing properties for the throat. If you struggle with sore throats, vocal cord issues, or organ complaints, placing the healing crystal on the throat can help flush the system and repair these issues.
To open your throat chakra or heal throat issues, you should try wearing a lapis lazuli necklace daily. The necklace will rest directly on the chakra, meaning you can carry the crystal’s healing benefits with you wherever you go.
Lapis Lazuli and Sagittarius
The qualities of someone with a Sagittarius sun sign (November 22-December 21) are highly compatible with the qualities of the blue gemstone. Sags are often celebrated for being honest and forthright, yet still free-spirited. They have a way of communicating with people that leaves all parties feeling respected and understood.
Those born under the fire sign are known to enjoy a good debate on occasion. As lapis is a stone of knowledge and wisdom, it can be highly beneficial for the quick-witted and well-informed Sagittarius.
5 Crystals That Pair Well with Lapis Lazuli
Lapis pairs well with several different stones, especially other stones that balance your chakras. If you are looking to enhance the healing powers of lapis, try using these five gemstones in tandem:
- Amethyst: Promotes calmness, balance, and peace and relieves stress and anxiety.
- Sodalite: Enhances rational thinking and intuition while encouraging self-expression and confidence.
- Labradorite: Protects against negative energies and fosters clarity and perseverance in challenging situations.
- Turquoise: Provides protection and brings tranquility to the mind and spirit. Improves communication in difficult conversations.
- Aquamarine: Fosters courage, calmness, emotional balance, and spiritual growth.
What Factors Affect Lapis Lazuli Pricing?
Lapis is a relatively inexpensive stone with lower grades selling for less than $1 per carat. However, certain factors such as the color, clarity, size, and location where the stone was sourced can drive up the price to as high as $100-$150 per carat.
Color and Clarity of Lapis
These are the three main factors that will affect the price of a lapis lazuli stone. The most expensive ones will be an even, intense blue color lightly dusted with flecks of pyrite. Any white calcite inclusions or the presence of too much pyrite would bring down the price of the stone.
While lapis is usually opaque to the naked eye, the most expensive stones will be free of cracks or scratches. Visible cracks or scratches will lower the durability and make the stone less desirable.
Determine the Location Source
Lapis mined from Afghanistan tends to be pricier than when mined from other locations. This is because in this region, the stone is generally a highly prized material with an intense blue color and purity.
Lapis Lazuli at Whaler’s Locker
At Whaler’s Locker, our lapis lazuli stones are grade AA, so you can shop with confidence knowing you are getting a high-quality gemstone. We offer three different sizes of lapis pebbles, ranging from $10 to $14:
Small: weighing between 10-19 grams
Medium: weighing between 20-29 grams
Large: weighing over 30 grams
If you wish to wear lapis, we offer beautiful gemstone jewelry featuring a wide variety of crystals. The lapis lazuli skull pendants are the perfect addition to any edgy jewelry collection.
Lapis Lazuli Worry Stones
Whaler’s Locker also sells lapis worry stones. These smooth, polished oval gemstones are used primarily for relaxation and anxiety relief. Many people rub the stone between their thumb and forefingers to feel the healing effects of the worry stone.
Caring for Lapis Lazuli
As lapis is a softer stone, it requires better care than some of the more durable gemstones. Lapis is extremely sensitive to harsh chemicals as they can severely damage the surface. Be sure to remove any lapis jewelry before swimming or using any cleaning products.
If you are going to clean your stone, you must do so with a soft, damp cloth and use care when polishing the surface. Then, store lapis away from any other gemstones to prevent scratches or damage.
Lapis lazuli is much more than a beautiful blue stone. Its rich history, cultural significance, and unique properties make it a gemstone cherished across civilizations and eras. From its use in ancient jewelry to its role in spiritual and healing practices, lapis has left an incredible mark on history.
Whether you’re drawn to its deep blue allure for aesthetic reasons or its metaphysical attributes for personal growth, this azure stone continues to captivate and inspire. Next time you’re looking for a healing crystal, consider lapis lazuli and embrace its timeless beauty.