Lapis Lazuli, a captivating blue metamorphic rock, holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones. Revered for millennia, it serves as a birthstone for September, and is also recognized as an alternative birthstone for December and January. Beyond its association with specific months, Lapis Lazuli is deeply intertwined with history, spirituality, and symbolism, representing wisdom, truth, and royalty. This article will delve into the origins, properties, historical significance, and enduring allure of this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
Lapis Lazuli boasts one of the longest histories of human appreciation, with evidence of its use dating back over 6,000 years. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Greeks, prized the stone for its vibrant color and perceived magical properties. Egyptians utilized Lapis Lazuli in jewelry, amulets, and funerary objects, believing it held protective powers and connected the physical world to the spiritual realm. Judges were known to wear amulets of the stone, associating it with veracity, and it was even theorized that the sun god Re was composed of Lapis Lazuli.
In Mesopotamian cultures, the stone was equally esteemed, adorning royalty and religious artifacts. References to Lapis Lazuli appear in early translations of the Bible, where it was sometimes used interchangeably with sapphire, though some scholars suggest that many biblical references likely pertain to Lapis Lazuli due to the limited knowledge of true sapphires at the time. During the early Christian tradition, Lapis Lazuli was regarded as the stone of the Virgin Mary and was frequently incorporated into episcopal rings and altars.
The name “Lapis Lazuli” itself is derived from two distinct linguistic roots: the Latin word “lapis,” meaning “stone,” and the Persian word “lazhuward,” meaning “blue.” Historically, the gem was also known by various other names, including lazurite, zemech lazarilli, the azure gem, and the Armenian stone, and was previously called “Lajevard” due to its discovery in the area of that name, a word meaning “heaven” or “sky.” This association with the heavens led to its designation as the “Stone of the Gods” and “Stone of Heaven.” Even as recently as the 18th century, Lapis Lazuli was considered exceptionally valuable, ranking as high as fifteen emeralds in price compared to the value of sapphire and ruby.
Geological Formation and Sources
Lapis Lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock composed primarily of lazurite, along with other minerals like pyrite and calcite. Lazurite is responsible for the stone’s characteristic deep blue color. The presence of pyrite creates golden flecks within the stone, while calcite can introduce white streaks. To be classified as Lapis Lazuli, a rock must contain at least 25% blue lazurite.
The primary source of Lapis Lazuli for over 6,000 years has been the mines in Sar-e-Sang, located in the Badakhshan province of Afghanistan. These mines continue to be a significant source of the gem today. However, Lapis Lazuli is also found in other locations around the world, including Russia (west of Lake Baikal in Siberia), Chile (in the Andes Mountains), Canada (in the Arctic regions), and even the United States (in California and Colorado). Additional sources include Pakistan, India, Italy, and Argentina.
Gemological Properties
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock with a hardness ranging from 5 to 6 on the Mohs hardness scale. This places it in the middle range, harder than some gemstones but softer than many clear ones. Its chemical composition is complex, reflecting its composite nature, with lazurite being a sodium aluminum silicate with sulfur. The stone exhibits an opaque quality, meaning light does not pass through it.
Pliny the Elder, a Roman philosopher and navy commander, described Lapis Lazuli as “opaque and sprinkled with specks of gold,” accurately capturing its visual characteristics. The deep blue color, stemming from the lazurite, is the most defining feature, though variations in shade and the presence of pyrite and calcite contribute to the unique appearance of each stone. Lapis Lazuli possesses an excellent polish, making it suitable for use in jewelry and ornamental objects.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 - 6 |
| Composition | Primarily Lazurite (NaAlSi3SO4) with Pyrite & Calcite |
| Color | Deep Blue |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Luster | Vitreous to Dull |
| Streak | White |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, Lapis Lazuli has been imbued with profound symbolism. It is often associated with wisdom, truth, inner vision, and royalty. The stone is believed to promote clarity of thought, enhance communication, and bring forth inner peace. Ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians believed it possessed healing energies and connected the physical and spiritual realms.
In modern metaphysical beliefs, Lapis Lazuli is thought to calm the mind, maintain focus, and cut through anger, aiding in concentration. It is also linked to the Third Eye Chakra, believed to expand the mind and heighten awareness during meditation. Some believe it stimulates clarity, promotes creativity, and even boosts the immune system, offering benefits to both the nervous and respiratory systems.
Lapis Lazuli is considered the birthstone for those born in September, and an alternative birthstone for December and January. It is also associated with the zodiac sign of Libra, believed to boost confidence and style. Giving a lapis lazuli ring as a gift is a tradition on the 9th wedding anniversary. The stone is said to inspire honesty in both spoken and written word.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its moderate hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, Lapis Lazuli requires careful handling. It is sensitive to pressure, heat, and harsh chemicals like household cleaners and abrasives. To clean Lapis Lazuli jewelry, it is best to use a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. It is also advisable to store Lapis Lazuli jewelry separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching. Regular polishing with a soft cloth will help maintain its luster.
Conclusion
Lapis Lazuli stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones throughout history. From its ancient origins in the mines of Afghanistan to its modern-day status as a cherished birthstone, this captivating blue rock continues to inspire and enchant. Its rich symbolism, representing wisdom, truth, and royalty, combined with its unique geological composition and striking appearance, ensures that Lapis Lazuli will remain a prized possession for generations to come. Its association with September, and as an alternative for December and January, further solidifies its place as a significant and meaningful gemstone.