For those born in September, sapphire is widely recognized as the traditional birthstone. However, a captivating alternative exists: Lapis Lazuli, a semi-precious gemstone with a history stretching back millennia. While often overshadowed by its more precious cousin, Lapis Lazuli possesses a unique beauty and a rich cultural significance that makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a September birthstone with a distinct character. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, properties, symbolism, and care of Lapis Lazuli, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Lapis Lazuli boasts one of the longest histories of any gemstone, with evidence of its use dating back approximately 6500 years. Its story begins in the Afghan region, where it was initially employed for art and jewelry making. From there, its allure spread across Asia, the Middle East, and into the Roman world. Ancient cultures held Lapis Lazuli in exceptionally high regard, valuing its vivid, exquisite color as much as, and sometimes even more than, other blue gemstones like sapphire and turquoise.
Beyond mere adornment, Lapis Lazuli served as both jewelry and an amulet, believed to offer protection and bestow wisdom. Its versatility extended to cosmetic applications; powdered Lapis was used as eyeshadow, and as a pigment for artistic endeavors. Notably, the Egyptians held Lapis Lazuli in particularly high esteem. Sculptures of pharaohs were often embellished with it, coloring their eyebrows or irises. Cleopatra herself famously used powdered Lapis as eye shadow, highlighting its association with royalty and beauty. The discovery of beautiful Lapis Lazuli amulets and jewels within the tomb of the Egyptian Pharaoh King Tutankhamun further underscores its importance in ancient Egyptian culture.
Interestingly, historical texts sometimes confused Lapis Lazuli with sapphire. The Old Testament, for example, likely referred to Lapis Lazuli when mentioning sapphire, a misnomer that persisted for some time. It is believed that Lapis Lazuli may be the fifth stone in the breastplate of the High Priest. Marco Polo documented the Lapis Lazuli mines as early as 1271, demonstrating the stone’s continued importance through the ages.
During the Middle Ages, Lapis Lazuli was transformed into a pigment known as ultramarine. At its peak, ultramarine was more valuable than gold, and it became the preferred color for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary and other significant religious figures. This striking pigment played a crucial role in creating some of history’s most iconic artworks, including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, favored by Renaissance artists like Michelangelo.
Geological Formation and Sources
Lapis Lazuli is not a single mineral but a metamorphic rock composed of three primary components: lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. Lazurite is the most significant of these, responsible for the gemstone’s characteristic deep blue color. To be classified as Lapis Lazuli, a rock must contain at least 25% blue lazurite. Pyrite manifests as speckles of yellow within the stone, while calcite introduces white intrusions, creating a unique and often mottled appearance.
Historically, the primary source of Lapis Lazuli was Afghanistan. However, the stone is also found worldwide, though deposits of gem-quality material are less common. Other sources include Asia, the Middle East, and the Roman world.
Gemological Properties
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock rather than a mineral, and therefore does not have a specific chemical formula in the same way as a single-element gemstone. It is composed primarily of lazurite (Na₆Ca₂Al₆Si₆O₂₄S₄), along with pyrite (FeS₂) and calcite (CaCO₃). As a rock, it does not have a defined hardness on the Mohs scale, but the constituent minerals have varying hardnesses. Lazurite itself has a hardness of 5.5, while calcite is softer at 3.
The defining characteristic of Lapis Lazuli is its intense blue color, stemming from the presence of sulfur in the lazurite. The quality of Lapis Lazuli is judged by the intensity of its blue hue, the presence of pyrite flecks (which are often considered desirable), and the absence of excessive calcite.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, Lapis Lazuli has been imbued with profound symbolic meaning. Ancient cultures viewed it as a symbol of wisdom, truth, and honor, associating it with royalty, power, and spiritual insight. The ancient Persians believed the world rested upon a giant sapphire, and that the sky appeared blue due to its reflection.
Buddhists believed sapphires – and by extension, Lapis Lazuli, which was often mistaken for sapphire – promoted inner peace. In Islam, the seven heavens were thought to shine with sapphires and other precious stones. The Ten Commandments are even believed by some to have been inscribed on tablets of sapphire, highlighting the stone’s association with divine law and unbreakable strength.
Lapis Lazuli continues to be regarded as a stone of wisdom and truth in modern metaphysical beliefs. It is believed to encourage self-awareness, stimulate intellectual ability, and enhance communication skills.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its composition, Lapis Lazuli requires gentle care. As a relatively soft material, it is susceptible to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals. Cleaning should be performed with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh detergents, as these can damage the stone’s surface and diminish its luster. It is advisable to remove Lapis Lazuli jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities to prevent accidental damage.
Conclusion
Lapis Lazuli, while often considered an alternative to sapphire as a September birthstone, stands as a gemstone of remarkable historical and cultural significance. From its ancient origins in Afghanistan to its use in the art of the Renaissance, Lapis Lazuli has captivated civilizations for millennia. Its unique composition, striking blue color, and rich symbolism make it a compelling choice for those seeking a birthstone that embodies wisdom, truth, and a connection to the past. While sapphire may be the more widely recognized September birthstone, Lapis Lazuli offers a captivating alternative with a story as deep and vibrant as its color.