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Fact: Lapis lazuli or
lapis for short is mostly lazurite but commonly contains pyrite
and calcite. The name means blue rock and is always a
brilliant blue with violet or greenish tints. The rich blue
color is due to the sulfur that is inherent in the structure
of lazurite. In a piece of jewelry the small crystals of pyrite
found in lapis blend with the setting, looking like gold in
a gold setting and silver in a silver setting, giving the stone
a personality all its own.
The best source of lapis is in the remote mountains in Afghanistan.
It is also found in Chile and in lesser quantities elsewhere.
It was first mined (in Afghanistan) 6000 years ago. The rock
was transported to Egypt and present day Iraq and later to Europe
where it was used in jewelry and for ornamental stone. It was
even ground down and used for paint.
Fancy: Lapis is one of the oldest spiritual stones known,
it was used mainly by priests and royalty in ancient Egypt.
Many believe that the Biblical sapphire was actually lapis lazuli.Through
the ages, lapis has been associated with power, wisdom, love,
and most frequently as a stimulator for psychic abilities.
It is believed to stimulate inner vision, give enhanced wisdom,
insight and good judgment.
Finished Jewelry using Lapis
Finished Earrings using Lapis
Lapis Cabochons Available for Jewelry
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