Everything You Need to Know About Lapis Lazuli

Sunday, February 21st, 2010 at 9:50 pm

Lapis Lazuli is one of the most ancient of gemstones. It’s been mined for over 6000 years. It’s indigenous to the mid east and is found through out Afghanistan. Its deep blue color has been prized literally for millennia. In fact it was one of the prized gems of the Pharos. If you want to know more about lapis lazuli you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about lapis lazuli.

Region: The most famous Lapis Lazuli is found in Afghanistan in the Badakhshan province. Recently mining has begun in the Andes mountain of Chile.

Formation: Lapis Lazuli isn’t a true mineral gem stone. Instead it’s actually a vibrant blue rock similar to marble.

Look: Lapis Lazuli has been called sapphire as well. It’s a brilliant deep blue color with gold and white flecks inside the strata

Ancient Usage: Lapis Lazuli was used for centuries as part of the burial rights of Egyptians. They would carve an eye shaped amulet out of the material. In fact the gem is even mentioned in The Book of the Dead.

Spiritual Usage Today: For healing lapis is used to clear up throat and head maladies including the brain and eyes. It is also used to help restore mental balance. Lapis is still heavily used in magical rituals. It represents clarity and psychic abilities. It is also considered an extremely lucky stone to boot.

So whether you are looking for lapis lazuli for spiritual and magical purposes or solely as a decorative gem stone it makes a great addition to any gem stone collection. The deep azure blue works great as a pendant or a set of earrings. It might not be a bad idea to pick up a set of lapis before heading out on a jaunt to Las Vegas. Whatever your reasons, Lapis Lazuli is just plain gorgeous.