Lapis lazuli

Lapis lazuli stone meaning and benefit. A feldspathoid silicate mineral lazurite. Not to be confused with the gemstone lazulit.

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Lapis lazuli meaning.

The most important mineral component is lazurite, a feldspathoid silicate mineral. It also contains calcite, sodalite, and pyrite. Some samples contain augite, diopside, enstatite, mica, hauynite, hornblende, nosean, and sulfur-rich lollingite geyerite. The stone usually occurs in crystalline marble as a result of contact metamorphism. Not to be confused with lazulit.

Color

The intense blue color is due to the presence of the trisulfur radical anion in the crystal. An electronic excitation of one electron from the highest doubly filled molecular orbital into the lowest singly occupied orbital gives it that deep and striking hue. When polished, lapis lazuli reveals a vibrant interplay of blue and golden sparkles due to its natural inclusions of pyrite. Collectors and enthusiasts worldwide appreciate this gemstone’s richly saturated color, which has made it a prized possession in many cultures throughout history.

Sources

We find lapis lazuli stone in limestone in the Kokcha River, a valley of Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan, where the Sar-e-Sang mine deposits are open for more than 6,000 years. Afghanistan was the source of lapis for the ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations, as well as the later Greeks and Romans. Ancient Egyptians obtained this material through trade from Afghanistan with the Aryans during the height of the Indus Valley Civilisation about 2000 BC. The Harappan colony (Shortugai) was established near the lapis mines.

According to mineralogist Pierre Bariand’s leading work on modern sources, and references in Afghanistan’s Blue Treasure: Lapis lazulit (2011) by Lailee McNair Bakhtiar, the stone is found in “caves,” not in traditional “mines,” and it is from the primary source of the Hindu Kush Mountains in Afghanistan’s Kochka River Valley.

In addition to the Afghan deposits, lapis is mined in the Andes near Ovalle, Chile, and to the west of Lake Baikal in Siberia, Russia, at the Tultui Lazurite deposit. Smaller quantities are also available in Angola, Argentina, Burma, Pakistan, Canada, Italy, India, and in the United States in California and Colorado. All these sources produce unique varieties of lapis lazuli, each slightly distinct in color tone and pyrite content, further enhancing its worldwide appeal.

Uses and substitutes

Not to be confused with lazulit, lapis takes an excellent polish and is widely used in jewelry, carvings, boxes, mosaics, ornaments, small statues, and vases. Historically, highly esteemed craftspeople fashioned intricate decorative items from this stone to adorn royal courts and sacred temples.

During the Renaissance, lapis was ground and processed to make the pigment ultramarine for use in frescoes and oil painting. Its application as a pigment in oil paint largely ended in the early 19th century, when a chemically identical synthetic variety became available. Nonetheless, modern artists and artisans still value genuine lapis pigment for its incomparable brilliance and historical significance.

Lapis lazuli meaning

The following section is pseudo scientific and based on cultural beliefs.

One of the most sought-after stones in use since mankind’s history began, lapis lazuli has been revered for its deep, celestial blue color. This hue remains a symbol of royalty and honor, gods and power, spirit and vision. It is widely regarded as a universal symbol of wisdom and truth. Many ancient civilizations believed in its protective qualities, wearing it to guard against negative energies and to promote enlightenment.

Over time, lapis lazuli became synonymous with spiritual insight, purportedly awakening the wearer’s higher faculties of mind and increasing self-awareness. Practitioners of holistic well-being also consider it a stone of serenity, encouraging inner harmony and balancing emotional energies.

Historical and modern significance

Throughout history, lapis lazuli has been a treasured gemstone, referenced in numerous ancient texts and worn by royalty. Its striking color adorned regal garments and ceremonial objects. Modern collectors and gem enthusiasts continue to prize this gem for both its timeless beauty and its storied past. Whether displayed in a museum, fashioned into a piece of fine jewelry, or used as an artistic pigment, lapis lazuli remains an enduring symbol of human creativity and reverence for natural wonders.

FAQ

What is the spiritual meaning of lapis lazuli?

The Sumerians believed that the spirit of their gods lived within the stone, while the ancient Egyptians saw it as a symbol of the night sky. Since the earliest times, lapis lazuli has been associated with strength and courage, royalty and wisdom, intellect and truth.

What are the healing properties of lapis lazuli?

The stone is said to boost the immune system, purify the blood, and help lower blood pressure. Some believe it has a cooling effect on areas of inflammation and can alleviate insomnia and vertigo, thereby helping overcome depression.

What chakra is lapis lazuli linked to?

Many consider lapis lazuli to be the stone of wisdom, perfect for the Third Eye Chakra. It is also believed to support the Throat Chakra, helping to clear any blockages and promote honest self-expression.

How much does lapis lazuli cost?

While lapis lazuli is not considered the most expensive gemstone, truly fine material is still rare. Lower grades may sell for less than $1 per carat, while superlative pieces can reach $100–150 per carat (or more) at retail.

Who should wear lapis lazuli?

When it comes to love and relationships, the gemstone is often referred to as a woman’s best friend, bringing energies of wisdom, emotional healing, and balance to the wearer or anyone keeping it close to their body.

What is the power of lapis lazuli?

In terms of mental healing and emotional powers, lapis carries positive energy and can strengthen the mind, helping its wearer overcome issues related to trauma, depression, or grief. Many believe it helps clear mental clutter, instilling inner hope and courage.

Does lapis lazuli need to be cleansed?

You can cleanse your crystal under running lukewarm water. Because lapis is relatively soft, avoid soaking it for extended periods. Dry the stone thoroughly immediately after cleansing to protect its surface and preserve its natural luster.

Natural lapis lazuli for sale in our gem shop

We make custom-made lapis lazuli jewelry such as engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Please contact us for a quote.