Lapis Lazuli and Its Cosmic Beauty
In the world of gemstones, few possess the enigmatic beauty and timeless elegance of Lapis Lazuli. Lapis Lazuli, with its celestial blue colour like the night sky, holds a rich history steeped in mythology, spirituality and artistic expression. From adorning the tombs of pharaohs to inspiring the works of Renaissance artists, this gemstone continues to hold a place of fascination in our world today.
Did You Know?
1. Lapis Lazuli is the birthstone for September.
2. Lapis Lazuli is a symbol of wisdom and truth.
3. The intense blue colour of Lapis Lazuli is the most desirable.
4. Lapis Lazuli was used as a cosmetic eye shadow, a pigment and a medicine.
5. The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel was painted with Lapis powder made into a pigment.
Origins and Formation of Lapis Lazuli
"Lapis" translates to "stone" in Latin, while "lazuli" is derived from the Persian word "lazhward," representing the stone's origin in the mines of what is now Afghanistan.
Archaeological evidence suggests its use back as far as 7000 BC. This mineral is a semi-precious stone, a combination of lazurite, sodalite and calcite. One of the most striking features of Lapis Lazuli is its intense blue hue, which ranges from deep azure to indigo, often sprinkled with golden pyrite flecks resembling stars in the night sky. The finest specimens exhibit a vivid blue colour with minimal veining and a high concentration of golden pyrite, making them highly prized in the world of gemmology.
Historic Significance of Lapiz Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli holds a respected place in human history, dating back thousands of years. Among the earliest known civilisations to have prized Lapis Lazuli were the Sumerians, who referred to it as "saggil," associating it with the divine and adorning their statues and artefacts with this semi-precious stone.
In ancient Egypt, Lapis Lazuli was considered a symbol of royalty and divinity, often used in funerary masks, jewellery and amulets. The famous death mask of Tutankhamun was adorned with Lapis Lazuli showing the esteem in which this gemstone was held by the ancient Egyptians.
Lapis Lazuli in Renaissance Art
During the Renaissance, Lapis Lazuli experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among the master artists of the period. Prized for its vibrant blue hue and exquisite beauty, Lapis Lazuli was ground into a fine powder to create ultramarine pigment, one of the most sought-after colours in paintings. Artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Vermeer utilised this precious pigment to infuse their masterpieces with celestial brilliance, elevating their works to new heights of artistic expression. One of the most iconic examples of the use of Lapis Lazuli in art is the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo.
Lapis Lazuli in Mythology
Beyond its material value, Lapis Lazuli has held profound spiritual significance in many cultures. In ancient Mesopotamia, it was associated with the goddess Inanna, who was believed to have descended to the underworld to retrieve the Lapis Lazuli wand, symbolising her power and authority. Similarly, in ancient Hindu mythology, Lapis Lazuli was regarded as a sacred stone representing the heavens and the divine realms.
In Greece and Rome, Lapis Lazuli was linked to Jupiter and Venus, respectively, and valued for its beauty and perceived connection to the heavens.
Metaphysical Properties of Lapis Lazuli
In addition to its historical and aesthetic significance, Lapis Lazuli is believed to possess various metaphysical properties. Often referred to as the "wisdom stone" or the "stone of truth," it is believed to promote clear thinking, inner awareness, and self-expression. Believers may use the stone during meditation to enhance focus and clarity or carry it as a talisman to promote honesty and communication in relationships. The calming blue colour is also thought to alleviate stress and anxiety.
Lapis Lazuli Jewellery Collections
Lapis Lazuli boasts a deep blue colour with specks of golden pyrite, creating a rich appearance which was the leading inspiration for our Lapis Lazuli collections. Its striking blue hue adds a touch of elegance to our North Star Lapis Lazuli collection where we combined it with gold vermeil beads and pendants.
Lapis Lazuli's captivating colour matched with freshwater pearls and sterling silver creates a visually stunning and brightening contrast in our designs. The vibrant blue colour beautifully complements a wide range of skin tones and styles. Our designs can be dressed up for formal occasions or used in more casual outfits.
Caring for Your Lapis Lazuli Jewellery
Lapis Lazuli is a relatively hard stone, with 5-6 on the Mohs scale. It can still scratch or break if dropped. To keep your Lapis Lazuli jewellery looking its best, avoid wearing it during strenuous activities or while using harsh chemicals. Clean your Lapis Lazuli jewellery with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone.
When storing your Lapis Lazuli, keep it wrapped in a soft cloth and away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause the colour to fade slightly. With proper care, your Lapis Lazuli piece can be enjoyed for years to come.
Conclusion
Lapis Lazuli stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones, transcending times and cultures to captivate the human imagination. From its ancient origins in the heart of the earth to its celestial blue hue reminiscent of the heavens above, Lapis Lazuli continues to inspire wonder and fascination in all who behold its beauty. Whether admired for its historical significance, artistic brilliance or metaphysical properties, Lapis Lazuli remains a timeless symbol of cosmic beauty and spiritual enlightenment. So next time you encounter this captivating gemstone, take a moment to appreciate its timeless beauty.
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