Lapis Lazuli, with its deep celestial blue speckled with pyrite that mimics a starry night, has been a symbol of royalty, wisdom, and honor for thousands of years. Revered for its rich, ultramarine color, this semi-precious stone is often associated with truth and enlightenment. It is believed to offer protection, as well as promote self-awareness and the harmonious expression of one's truth and beliefs.

Physical and Geological Properties

Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of lazurite, which gives it the deep blue color, along with calcite (white), sodalite (blue), and pyrite (metallic yellow) adding to its unique appearance. It ranks about 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, indicating a relatively soft nature that requires careful handling in jewelry. The most significant deposits of Lapis Lazuli are found in the northeastern part of Afghanistan, with other notable sources including Russia, Chile, Italy, Mongolia, the United States, and Canada.

Historical Background

Lapis Lazuli's history dates back over 6,000 years, used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Sumerians, and Babylonians. The Egyptians particularly valued it for its beauty and its symbolic connection to the heavens, using it in jewelry, amulets, and even grinding it into powder for dyes and cosmetics. It was also treasured by artists during the Renaissance, who used it to create the ultramarine pigment prized for its vibrant color. Lapis Lazuli has been considered a stone of wisdom and truth, used by kings and spiritual leaders to access sacred knowledge and power.

Metaphysical Properties and Symbolic Meanings

Lapis Lazuli is known for its ability to stimulate enlightenment and enhance dream work, promoting spiritual journeying and psychic abilities. It is believed to quickly release stress, bringing deep peace and serenity. Associated with the third eye chakra, it enhances intuition and psychic awareness, helping to reveal inner truths and foster self-awareness. Lapis Lazuli is also thought to encourage honesty, compassion, and morality in personal and professional relationships. Lapis Lazuli is an alternate birthstone for September, offering similar deep blue hues and spiritual significance to the traditional Sapphire.

Pairing with Other Gemstones

Lapis Lazuli pairs well with other stones that enhance its spiritual and truth-seeking qualities. Clear Quartz can amplify its properties, while Amethyst can enhance its connection to intuition and the higher self. Citrine, promoting joy and abundance, complements Lapis Lazuli's deep serenity, creating a balance between spiritual insight and physical well-being. Sodalite, sharing similar hues and energies, can reinforce Lapis Lazuli's influence on communication and insight.

Basic Care Instructions

To care for Lapis Lazuli, clean it gently with a soft, damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone. It should be protected from scratches and sharp blows, as well as extreme temperatures and acids. Store Lapis Lazuli separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches, ideally wrapped in a soft cloth or placed in a fabric-lined box. Recharging its energy in moonlight can enhance its metaphysical properties.

Use in Bracelets

A Lapis Lazuli bracelet is not just a beautiful piece of jewelry but also a powerful tool for spiritual growth and self-expression. Wearing it can help to enhance one's intuition, promote clarity of thought, and encourage honesty and creativity. The deep blue of Lapis Lazuli, interspersed with golden pyrite, makes it a striking accessory that can complement any outfit, carrying with it centuries of history and the energy to support personal development and insight.