Lapis Lazuli is one of the most sought-after stones in use since man’s history began. Its deep, celestial blue remains the symbol of royalty and honor, gods and power, spirit and vision. It is a universal symbol of wisdom and truth. Lapis Lazuli crystals are found primarily in Afghanistan, Argentina, Chile, Italy, Russia, and the United States.
History and Lore
In ancient times Lapis Lazuli was most highly regarded because of its beautiful color and the valuable ultramarine dye derived from it. Its name comes from the Latin lapis, "stone," and the Persian lazhuward, “blue." In the Renaissance period, Lapis Lazuli stone was often ground and used to create blue paint. In powdered form, the stone was also used in blue eyeshadows in Ancient Egypt, most famously by Cleopatra. Lapis Lazuli crystal was also used to adorn burial sites for royalty, and King Tut’s sarcophagus was said to have been decorated with Lapis Lazuli stones. Besides resembling the blue eyeshadow he wore, the Lapis Lazuli meaning was believed to help guide souls into the afterlife. Even when we entered the middle ages and European shores, Lapis Lazuli hadn’t lost its celebrated splendor. Catherine the Great fell hard for the rich blue hues and had a whole room adorned in Lapis Lazuli. Michelangelo ground it down to blue pigment powder to make a striking shade of blue that we can see to this very day when turning our eyes heavenward when walking through the Sistine Chapel. The Sumerians believed that the spirit of their gods lived within the stone, while the ancient Egyptians saw it as a symbol of the night sky.
Composition and Formation
It is a rock formed by multiple minerals, mostly Lazurite, Sodalite, Calcite, and Pyrite, and is a rich medium to royal blue with gold flecks (pyrites). Lower-grade Lapis is lighter blue with more white than gold flecks and is sometimes called denim Lapis.
Physical Healing Properties
Soothes throat and thyroid issues
Alleviates headaches, migraines, fevers, and pain
Soothes inflammation
If you suffer from sore throats, vocal chord issues, or organ complaints, this stone flushes the system
Purifies blood
Identifies the karmic roots of disease
Helpful with children and adults who are highly intelligent, who have Aspergers Syndrome or autistic tendencies
Relieves eye infections or sties
Emotional / Mental Healing Properties
Eases depression and insomnia
Helps with truth and self-awareness
Bonds relationships and forges close-knit friendships
Brings out that stashed away self-knowledge that leads to authenticity and the freedom to live in one’s truth.
Enhances confidence
Releases stress
Calms feelings of frustration, agitation and anger
Cleanses and releases negative views and facilitates a more positive outlook on life
Improves your concentration and focus
Intellectual analysis, problem - solving, and creating new ideas
Sharpens your memory
Spiritual Healing Properties
Boosts your intuition
Expands your mental awareness
Opens and heals throat / third eye chakras
Rids negative energy
Assists with tapping into hidden psychic abilities
Wards off psychic attacks
Contacts spirit guides
Stimulates enlightenment and enhances dream work
Reverses curses or disease
Guides you on your spiritual journey which also stimulates your spiritual and personal power
Enhances meditative journeys and facilitates past- and alternate-life viewing
Helps channel the other side, for mediumship and to access the Akashic Records
Balances the male and female aspects of your personality
Cleansing and Charging
Warm soapy water is the simplest way to keep your gemstone gleaming clean although make sure that you avoid temperatures that are too hot when caring for your stone. Be sure to rinse it with fresh cool water to remove the soapy residue and dry thoroughly with something soft. If you want to charge up your Lapis Lazuli then leave it overnight in a bowl with tumbled Hematite to soak up the energy it no longer needs and refuel it with finery. A few other options for cleaning include: Smoke, Selenite, sunlight, and moonlight.
Comments