Lapis Lazuli Minerals

Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock known for its stunning deep royal blue color along with hints of shimmering gold. The vibrant blue color comes from lazurite and a change of transfer between atoms of sulfur. Lapis Lazuli is known to be made up of three minerals, calcite, sodalite, and pyrite. Pyrite is what contributes to those stunning golden specks throughout. Lapis Lazuli contains a wax-like and glass-like luster and can be found to be either opaque or semi-translucent.

The name Lapis Lazuli derives from the Latin word “Lapis” which translates to “stone” along with the Arabic word “Azula” which translates to blue. Historically Lapis Lazuli has been around for almost 6,500 years and was known to be used by the ancient civilizations of China, Greece, Rome, Mesopotamia, and Egypt. In history, Lapis Lazuli was not only used for jewelry but it was also used for furnishing in ancient graves for the belief that it would protect them in their next life. In fact, King Tutankhamen was laid with Lapis Lazuli in his final resting place. Cleopatra was also known to adorn herself with Lapis Lazuli Jewelry along with using powdered Lapis as eye shadow. During the Renaissance era, it was said that famous Italian painter Michelangelo even used ground-up Lapis Lazuli as a color pigment for a portion of his paintings.

Lapis Lazuli can be found in various parts of the world such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Chile, Argentina, Italy, Burma, Canada, and the United States. Mines located northeast of Afghanistan continue to be the world’s leading source and providers of Lapis Lazuli today. It is said that Lapis Lazuli can be found inside crystallized limestone along with crystallized marble.

In crystal beliefs, it is said that Lapis Lazuli can be used as a protection against psychic attacks. Not only is it seen as protection, but it is believed to bring peace and harmony as well as reveal inner truths and self-awareness. Due to these healing properties, Lapis Lazuli is also known as the “Wisdom Stone.”