LAPIS LAZULI
Lapis lazuli is a rock used as a semi-precious stone, composed of lazurite, calcite and pyrite. It has a specific weight of 2.4 and a hardness of 5.5. It cannot be attacked by hydrochloric acid, which differentiates it from other rocks such as azurite.
The most important deposits are in Afghanistan, in the Hindu Kush mountains. It is also found in Russia, Chile, the USA, Burma and Pakistan
Lapis lazuli has been one of the most appreciated stones throughout history. It was already used in prehistoric times for ornamental purposes. Lapis lazuli was already mentioned in 2650 BC in the Sumerian epic of Gilgamesh. Jewels made of lapis lazuli have been found in the city of Ur, Mesopotamia. The ancient Egyptians used it profusely in religious ceremonies and it is found in the jewels of the Pharaohs. Greeks and Romans used it as a reward for courage and as a powerful aphrodisiac. The Bible makes mention of it in the book of Exodus. In the Middle Ages, the powder of the mineral, lazurite, provided a blue pigment, ultramarine blue, which was used to produce the characteristic blue pigment for painters or to dye fabrics.
The value of lapis lazuli is determined by the abundance of ultramarine blue in the rock. Pyrite specks increase its value, as long as they are not excessive or too large.
It should be kept away from strong pressures and high temperatures, hot baths, acids and soaps.
PLANETS AND STARS
In antiquity and the Middle Ages, it was believed that precious stones were an emanation from the stars. The cosmos would be reflected in precious stones. Each planet is attributed a gemstone, and lapis lazuli is related to Jupiter. And just as with the planets, constellations and the Zodiac also correspond to them. In this case the lapis lazuli would be one of the stones of the earth sign Taurus.
ESOTERIC AND HEALING PROPERTIES
Wisdom and royalty have been considered as the stone of power. The Egyptians believed that by using lapis lazuli they could connect with the gods.
As an indigo colour, it acts on the third eye or Ajna Chakra by unblocking emotions, releasing the intuition and helping the consciousness to reach its own power. In meditation it facilitates the path of wisdom and balances out moments of uncertainty and scepticism. Lapis Lazuli connects us with our inner being, with meditation, devotion, introspection, with our ability to trust in the higher. Lapis lazuli is a master of light. It is the stone of wisdom, truth, integrity and enlightenment. It is protective against external psychic attacks. As a Yang stone, it is an important energy activator. Lapis lazuli establishes relationships of love and friendship and helps to express feelings and emotions. It encourages you to take charge of your life.
As a healing stone, it strengthens the immune system, calms headaches, helps heal and strengthen the throat as well as helping to relieve neck pain. It is effective against insomnia.