Origin

Lapis Lazuli is one of the most valuable semi opaque stones. It is composed of a mixture of several different minerals including lazurite, sodalite, calcite and pyrite and has a hardness of 5-7 on Mohs scale. Top quality lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan, but is also found in Siberia, Chile,  the U.S., Pakistan, and Canada.

A strong blue, sometimes with a hint of violet, lapis lazuli's value decreases with the presence of white patches (calcite), while small veins of pyrite are often prized.  

It is imitated by a number of methods typically involving the use of dyes. Sometimes dyes are used in combination with the crushing and reconstitution of lower grade lapis lazuli. Lapis lazuli is characteristically recognized by its color.  The presence of pyrite can distinguish natural Lapis Lazuli from many (but not all) of the lapis simulants.

History / Mythology

Lapis has been in our history since 5000 B.C. – in legends this is a holy stone which brought the blue of the sky and with it the “light of the god” down to earth.  It was the stone of ancient rulers.

Lapis Lazuli has been used in gemstone jewelry for thousands of years. It is one of the biblical gemstones used in Breastplate of Aaron, the High Priest, and at one time Lapis jewelry was only worn by royalty. The Egyptians used Lapis for seals, cosmetic purposes and often carved it into vases and figurines. 

Lapis Lazuli is listed as the traditional birthstone for December.

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Metaphysical Lore

Referred to as a "Stone of Total Awareness" this beautiful gem aids in connecting the physical and celestial kingdoms, representing the forces of initiation into wisdom and the mystical realm. It assists in the attunement to the Creative Source, allowing the wearer greater awareness of our connection to "All That Is".

It is said to have existed "Before Time Was Born" thus capable of aiding one in gaining access to the ancient knowledge and enhancing wisdom to understand what is revealed. Lapis Lazuli is noted as a stone of kings and was used in the Breastplate of Aaron, the High Priest.

Lapis Lazuli is furhter related to Archangel Zadkiel, whose name means, "Righteousness of God".  Archangel Zadkiel's aura is a deep dark blue.  He heals memory and metal functioning.  Need to get ready for a test?  Call on Archangel Zadkiel to help you remember what you studied.

(Astrological Sign of Sagittarius )

Vibrates to the number 3

Medicinal Lore

Lapis lazuli is said to help cure depression, insomnia, recurring fevers, vision and hearing problems, and disorders of the throat, lungs and immune system.

Shaman's Shield Sterling Silver pendant cradles the attractive pear cut Afghanistan Lapis Lazuli cabochon.

10mm X 8mm pear cabochon

Measures  1 3/4" X 1/2 "

Shaman's Shield Sterling Silver pendant cradles the attractive pear cut Afghanistan Lapis Lazuli cabochon.

10mm X 8mm pear cabochon

Measures  1 3/4" X 1/2 "