Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is valued for its dark blue color and interesting included sparkle of gold. Lapis lazuli is a stone that has seen a long and varied history, and continues to be a favorite of jewelry makers today.

History Of Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli has been mined and used for centuries by several different cultures. The ancients mined lapis lazuli from mines in Afghanistan; some of these very same mines are still producing today. In ancient civilizations – such as Mesopotamia – lapis lazuli was used in some interesting ways. Lapis lazuli was used to make intricate inlays, and even panel palace walls; painters also used ground lapis lazuli as common color sources to pigment paints during the Renaissance. The rich blue lapis lazuli color that became known as ultramarine was used to color the skies and seas in paintings during the Renaissance period.

Lapis lazuli had different meanings throughout the ages, but most commonly lapis lazuli was believed to be an aphrodisiac, and in the middle ages lapis lazuli was believed to keep limbs healthy and release the soul from feelings of envy, error, and fear.

Buying Lapis Lazuli Jewelry

Lapis lazuli is a deep blue in color. Some inclusions in lapis lazuli diminish its appearance and associated value, but others are quite favorable in the gem. Inclusions of gold colored pyrite are often found in the lapis lazuli stone; such inclusions are highly favorable in lapis lazuli and well loved in lapis lazuli necklace pendants.

Lapis lazuli is used to make different styles of jewelry. Some of the most common settings lapis lazuli is used in are:

• lapis lazuli pendant
• lapis lazuli beads
• lapis lazuli rings

Lapis lazuli is a fairly soft gemstone. Care should be taken when stored so that the stone does not scratch. Its soft nature makes lapis lazuli ideal for carving for jewelry making and sculptural purposes. The more popular shapes and sculptural forms of lapis lazuli that can be purchased online are:

• lapis lazuli Buddha
• lapis lazuli cabochons (smooth, rounded stone which showcases the color and inclusions of the stone)
• lapis lazuli cross (this shape is used for several purposes, but one of the best loved is the lapis lazuli cross necklace)

Lapis lazuli has long enjoyed the attentions of man. This beautiful stone with colorful inclusions and versatile use will continue to be a favorite gem of man for many decorative purposes.