Welcome to the majestic world of gemstones, where each stone has its own charm and tale to tell. Today, let's immerse ourselves in the deep azure world of lapis lazuli. Known for its captivating color and rich history, lapis lazuli has long been a favorite amongst jewelers, healers, and artists alike. But there's so much more to this gemstone than meets the eye. Let's go on a journey to uncover its unique properties, uses, and safety measures.
History of Lapis Lazuli
Centuries ago, when civilization was still in its early stages, one of the first gemstones to be mined and used was lapis lazuli. Nestled within the remote mountains of Afghanistan, these ancient mines served as a source of lapis for the ancient Egyptians, who adored the stone's intense blue color and integrated it into their jewelry and decor. They even believed that it carried the soul into the afterlife, a belief that made lapis a common inclusion in burial sites.
Fast forward to the middle ages, lapis lazuli served as a favorite pigment for the revered artists of the Renaissance, lending a touch of deep blue to their immortal masterpieces. Over time, lapis has woven its magic into various cultures, religions, and fields, solidifying its place in human history.
Properties of Lapis Lazuli
So, what sets lapis lazuli apart from other gemstones? It's the unique cocktail of minerals that form it. Mainly composed of lazurite, which gives it its iconic blue color, lapis also contains calcite and pyrite, which create the white and golden flecks, respectively. This distinctive look makes each piece of lapis an artistic marvel.
Not only does it look exquisite, but lapis lazuli also has a hardness of 5-5.5 on the Mohs scale. This means while it's relatively softer than gems like diamond, it's durable enough for various uses, from jewelry to decor pieces.
What is Lapis Lazuli Good For?
Apart from its aesthetic appeal, lapis lazuli is also hailed for its perceived metaphysical properties. Believers in crystal healing credit lapis for boosting wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. It's said to stimulate the third eye chakra, enhancing intuition and facilitating spiritual growth.
In the realm of physical wellness, some suggest that lapis lazuli can provide relief for migraines, boost the immune system, and even improve sleep.
How to Use Lapis Lazuli
There's a sea of ways to incorporate lapis lazuli into your life. If you're drawn to its aesthetic allure, fashioning lapis into jewelry or home decor is a splendid idea. Imagine an exquisite necklace with a lapis pendant resting against your skin, or a beautifully crafted lapis centerpiece on your coffee table, infusing your space with its serene blue.
For those intrigued by its metaphysical aspects, you might find meditation with lapis helpful. Holding it while meditating or placing it on your third eye chakra can allegedly facilitate a deeper spiritual connection.
Is Lapis Lazuli Safe for Crystal Elixirs?
Now, you might have heard of crystal elixirs, drinks infused with the energy of various crystals. While the idea sounds enchanting, it's crucial to know which crystals are safe for ingestion and which are not.
In the case of lapis lazuli, it's best to err on the side of caution. Lapis lazuli contains sulfur and aluminum, which can be harmful if ingested. Thus, it's recommended to avoid using lapis lazuli directly in elixirs.
However, there's an alternative. The indirect method, where the crystal is placed alongside or above the water without touching it, is a safer choice for harnessing its energy. The best and safest way to do this is by using a Shiva's Stone lapiz lazuli crystal water bottle.
FAQs About Lapis Lazuli Crystal
Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding lapis lazuli, it's origin, benefits and properties:
What Are The Benefits of Lapis Lazuli:
- Protection
- Stress Relief
- Uplifting
- Aligning Energy
- Peacefulness
- Immunity
- Health
- Grounding
What Zodiac Signs Is Lapis Lazuli Good For:
- Taurus
- Libra
- Capricorn
- Sagittarius
Is Lapis Lazuli Water Safe? :
- Not for direct crystal infusion, it is only viable to indirectly infuse your water with lapis lazuli (without direct water contact)
Wrapping Up
From the heart of mountains to the heart of civilization, lapis lazuli has truly made its mark. Its historical significance, unique composition, potential benefits, and wide range of uses make it a gemstone worth exploring. However, it's also a reminder to handle all gemstones responsibly and be informed about their safety. Whether you're drawn to lapis lazuli for its physical beauty, spiritual significance, or both, it's a treasure that adds a vibrant hue to the rich tapestry of gemstones.
