What is lapis lazuli? Where did this gemstone get its name?

Lapis Lazuli is a beautiful gemstone that has been used in jewelry, carvings and even the Bible breastplate. The name of this stunning blue gemstone is derived from the Persian term azul for the color blue and the Latin term lapsis for stone. Usually, this gemstone is an intense blue with white inclusions (calcite) or gold inclusions (pyrite). The color of lapis lazuli was actually used as the element in ultramarine, the color used by Renaissance painters to depict the blue seas and skies. In fact, there was no replacement for lapis lazuli in the making of this incredible color until the year 1834. The ancient Egyptians even used lapis lazuli as a carving stone as well as the very first form of vivid blue eye shadow.


The main source of the highest quality of lapis lazuli is Afghanistan. Nowadays, lapis lazuli is also found in Chile, Colorado, Myanmar, and Siberia. Lapis lazuli is said to have the power to affect spirituality, insight and wisdom. It was also considered a strong medicine and an aphrodisiac, as well as a way to maintain a healthy body and fearless soul.


Lapis lazuli comes in at 5.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This rather soft, porous gemstone should never be cleaning with chemical solutions or jewelry cleaning products because it will absorb fluids that could diminish from its color and wear away the gemstone in general. Therefore, be sure to remove your lapis lazuli jewelry when washing the dishes, doing household chores, or playing sports. It should also be stored separately from other pieces of jewelry to keep from being scratched. Do not send this type of gemstone jewelry to be cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners. To clean lapis lazuli jewelry, use mild dish detergent and a toothbrush, or simply rub the gemstones with a polishing cloth.

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