The complete guide to lapis lazuli: origin, virtues and characteristics
Lapis lazuli, this deep and captivating blue stone, hides within itself a fascinating history, ancient myths, and precious benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about this gem. Discover the geographic origins of this gemstone, delve into the myths and legends surrounding it, and explore its historic uses that have left their mark on history.
Additionally, we will examine the spiritual and physical properties of lapis lazuli, as well as methods to purify and recharge it. You will also find advice on pairing this stone with other gems.
Prepare to be captivated by the world of lapis lazuli and to discover the multiple facets of this precious stone, a true treasure of nature.
Characteristics and composition of lapis lazuli
|
Mineral species |
Silicate |
|
Composition |
Lazurite, calcite, sodalite and pyrite |
|
Hardness |
5/10 on the mohs scale |
|
Density |
2.7 to 3 |
|
Crystal system |
Cubic |
|
Colors |
Intense blue, between azure and ultramarine, dotted with yellow shards of pyrite or white calcite |
|
Deposits |
Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, United States, Canada, Pakistan, Angola and Burma |
|
Chakras |
Throat and Third Eye (Frontal)l |
|
Astrological signs |
Sagittarius, Aquarius and Pisces |
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Symbolism and power |
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The fascinating history of the Lapis Lazuli stone
The gemstone lapis lazuli, famous for its captivating beauty and rich history, has its origins in the mysterious depths of the Earth.
Its name comes from two distinct sources: "lapis" meaning "stone" in Latin and "lazuli" coming from the Persian "lazhward", meaning " blue" . The meaning of its name perfectly reflects the deep and captivating color of this gem.
Geographic origin of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, particularly Afghanistan , which is considered the oldest and most prestigious deposit of this stone.
Deposits of lapis lazuli have also been discovered in Pakistan and parts of Siberia.
Afghanistan's lapis lazuli mines, located in Badakhshan province, have been mined for over 6,000 years, making it one of the oldest minerals known to mankind.
Myths and legends around Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a special place in ancient history and legends. Ancient Egyptians used it to make jewelry, amulets, and cosmetics . Pharaohs associated it with royalty and protection , believing that lapis lazuli had magical powers. It is also found in the tombs of ancient Mesopotamian kings, testifying to its inestimable value throughout the centuries.
Historical uses of stone
Over time, this stone was traded along the Silk Road , which contributed to its spread across Asia, the Middle East and Europe. In the Middle Ages it was used to create works of art and frescoes of great beauty, some of the most famous of which can be found in St. Mark's Basilica in Venice.
Today, lapis lazuli is still sought after for creating fine jewelry and works of art. Its applications are not limited to jewelry, it is also used in the making of sculptures, musical instruments and interior decorations.
Now let's see the benefits of this precious stone.
The different benefits of lapis lazuli
In lithotherapy, lapis lazuli is a stone that has many virtues and properties.
Mental and spiritual benefits of lapis lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a stone known for its anti-stress properties . Its blue color, symbol of serenity, and its symbolism of water, make it an excellent ally to combat negative thoughts. Worn daily on your wrist, it helps fight against anxiety and fears.
As a stone of communication , lapis lazuli facilitates exchanges with others and the expression of feelings. Thus, your friendly, family and romantic relationships are facilitated.
These two virtues combined can help shy people combat their anxiety. When speaking in front of an audience, it will help reduce stress and apprehension to better structure your speech.
Lapis lazuli promotes self-confidence . It brings tenderness, happiness, kindness and a communicative good mood. Beyond fostering your relationships with others, it also helps you live in harmony with yourself. It can be of great help in introspection and helping you uncover the hidden causes of your problems.
This deep blue stone is said to act on imagination and creativity. Thus, it would stimulate ingenuity. So don’t hesitate to reach for it during your work sessions!
On a more spiritual level, lapis lazuli acts mainly on the throat chakra . This ties in with what we were saying previously regarding its effect as a stone of communication. It helps you communicate your thoughts with confidence.
It also acts on the 3rd eye chakra , otherwise called the frontal chakra. This promotes decision-making and clairvoyance.
Generally speaking, lapis lazuli purifies your soul and stabilizes your mind. It brings you happiness and serenity in your relationships with others but also with your mind.
Physical benefits of lapis lazuli
Lapis lazuli acts mainly on the central nervous system. It stimulates the brain, hormonal glands, eyes, nose and ears.
This stone is known for its effect on the proper functioning of the eyes. In fact, it limits vision problems. It helps reduce migraines and headaches caused by eye fatigue.
Lapis lazuli also acts on the bronchi and lungs. It regulates breathing, strengthens respiratory functions and helps fight coughs. It is an ally of choice for people suffering from asthma because it helps soothe their breathing problems and inflammation of the bronchi.
By acting as a natural anti-stress, your stone helps you regain quality sleep . We advise you to wear your bracelet to sleep or to slip it under your pillow to have a peaceful and peaceful night.
Finally, this gem being charged with water energy, it will have two additional effects:
- regulation of the kidneys and bladder
- relief from burns, sunburns and irritations caused by heat
Please note that lithotherapy cannot replace medical advice . The stones are complementary to classical medicine.
How to purify and recharge lapis lazuli?
Through use, a stone empties itself of its positive energy and becomes charged with negative energies. This is why it is essential to purify it and then recharge it regularly. It is important to maintain and preserve your stone to continue to benefit from its benefits.
Purify a lapis lazuli stone
There are several solutions to purify your lapis lazuli. The simplest is to leave your stone in a bath of tap water or demineralized water overnight .
Be careful not to use salt water or hot water which could damage your stone.
Once the night has passed, all you have to do is wipe it with a soft cloth to dry it.
You can also use a flower of life or white sage to cleanse your gem of negative energies.
Recharge your lapis lazuli
When you have finished purifying your lapis lazuli, it is important to recharge it with positive energies.
To do this, the solution we recommend is to expose your stone to moonlight overnight . As with amethyst, the ideal is to carry out this operation on a full moon night because the energy is increased tenfold.
It is also possible to leave your stone for 1 or 2 hours in full daylight but not in direct sunlight.
Finally, you can also place your lapis lazuli on a quartz cluster for a few hours to recharge it.
Once this step is completed, your stone will regain all its powers.
Which stone to combine with lapis lazuli?
To choose which stones to associate your lapis lazuli with, it is important to choose stones that have similar energies . Thus, their effects are more powerful. Otherwise, it could reduce or completely wipe out their benefits.
You can choose a stone that is similar in function. If you want to focus on stimulating the throat chakra , you can opt for chalcedony, larimar, aquamarine, chrysocolla or amazonite, for example.
To stimulate and strengthen the action of lapis lazuli on the 3rd eye chakra, you can choose to combine it with labradorite, hawk's eye, azurite or sodalite. These associations can improve your concentration skills .
Finally, you can also base your choice on the color of the stones. Stones with the same color have the same vibrations . So, amazonite and turquoise are two very interesting choices. These are stones that calm the mind . They combine wonderfully with the serenity brought by lapis lazuli.
Conclusion on lapis lazuli
Lapis lazuli, whose name evokes the richness of its color and its history, continues to fascinate lovers of precious stones around the world. From its origins in the mountains of Central Asia to its presence in legends and culture, this gemstone remains a symbol of timeless beauty and wisdom.
Source of numerous benefits for both the mind and the body, this stone brings you calm and serenity. As a bracelet, in addition to being an elegant piece of jewelry, it improves your confidence and facilitates your relationships with those around you.
At Dominique Lorenzo , we wanted to offer you a discreet and elegant bracelet whose stone is interchangeable . You can change your stone in a few seconds to associate it with your state of mind for the day.
As we often say, the days follow each other but are not always the same. This is why we wanted to offer a piece of jewelry that allows you to easily change your stone. Every day you can choose the perfect stone based on your planned activities and your current state of mind!
If you have any questions about this stone or our bracelets, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to answer them.
We would also be curious to know if you have experienced other benefits than those mentioned in this article by wearing your lapis lazuli.