Lapis Lazuli is an enchanting, deep blue stone, derived from the Latin word for 'stone', Lapis being the Persian word for 'blue'. Lapis Lazuli is not pure blue but a deep blue stone with golden, white veins, as gorgeous as the Milky Way, in which the irregular white streaks, interspersed with golden flakes, actually come from pyrite and calcite. Lapis lazuli was considered a 'sacred stone' by the ancient Egyptians and was the earliest healing stone in human history.
What are the properties and contraindications of this precious and spiritual stone? What are the colours and grades of Lapis Lazuli, and what are the chakras that correspond to them?
What are the healing properties of Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis lazuli is known as the 'stone of meditation', as it is often considered a stone of wisdom and access to the depths of the soul. In the chakra system, Lapis Lazuli corresponds to the Brow Chakra, and its energy helps to raise the power of the spirit and mind, enhancing insight and resolution. For those who are often distracted, wearing a Lapis Lazuli can help keep the mind clear and focused.
What are the contraindications to wearing Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis Lazuli should not be worn in high temperatures, as exposure to intense light can affect its lustre and colour. It is not advisable to soak Lapis Lazuli in water to clean it, as the loose structure of Lapis Lazuli can affect its colour and beauty over time.
How is Lapis Lazuli graded? It turns out that the more 'gold', the better?
Lapis Lazuli varies in shades of blue, from slightly greenish to violet blue, with medium to dark tones. The star-like gold dots and white veins in Lapis Lazuli are derived from pyrite and calcite. The higher the clarity of the lapis lazuli, the deeper and cleaner the blue, the more uniform the colour and the higher the value, according to jewellery authentication standards. A Lapis Lazuli stone with more calcite will have more white veins or spots, which will reduce the intensity and uniformity of the blue colour.
Should I wear Lapis Lazuli on my right or left hand?
Lapis Lazuli is generally worn on the left hand as it effectively channels energy into the body, helping the wearer focus on the present moment and sort out thoughts and emotions. It is also suitable for meditation.
How to care for Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis Lazuli can be demagnetised in the same way as a crystal bracelet, by placing it in a crystal cluster, on top of crystal chips or in a crystal cave, approximately once a month. If you have access to places with intense negative energy, such as cemeteries or hospitals, you should increase the frequency of cleansing and care. You can also wipe with a soft cloth instead of washing with water if there are stains on the Lapis Lazuli surface, as long-term water penetration can affect the colour and beauty of the stone.
What is the meaning of Lapis Lazuli?
The distinctive blue colour of Lapis Lazuli is a colour that represents hope and therefore symbolises peace, good fortune and kindness. Lapis Lazuli is also a lucky birthstone for those born in December.
Where is Lapis Lazuli from?
Lapis Lazuli comes mainly from Afghanistan, Iran, Russia and Chile. There are different types of Lapis Lazuli from different origins. The Siberian region of Russia is the second largest producer of Lapis Lazuli, so Lapis Lazuli from Russia contain more pyrite and are darker in colour, with more inclusions and gold dots. The Chilean variety is lighter in colour or greenish, with a distinct calcite parent stone.