other cultures Lapis Lazuli was also worshipped as a holy stone. Especially in the oriental countries it was considered as a gemstone with magical powers. Numerous seals, rings, scarabs and jewelry objects were crafted from the blue stone, which was introduced to Europe by Alexander the Great. Here the color was called ultramarine", meaning from beyond the seas".
The evocative name is a compound of "lapis", the Latin word for stone, and the Arabian word "azul", denoting the color blue. So it is basically just a blue stone but what a special blue! The value of this color for the world of art was for example enormous: in fact the ultramarine blue paint used by the Grand Old Masters was nothing else but pulverized Lapis Lazuli. It was pulverized and added to a mixture of binding agents, thus turning the marble-like gemstone into a bright blue paint, suitable for watercolors, tempera and oil paintings. Before it became possible in 1834 to manufacture this color also artificially, the only kind of valuable ultramarine in the market had to be made from real Lapis Lazuli, which still displays its splendor in many works of art. For example, many portraits of the Virgin Mary would have been impossible to create without Lapis Lazuli blue. However, even in those days ultramarine blue was not only considered fine and rare and so powerful that it dulled all other colors, it was also very expensive indeed. But contrary to all other material employed to create the color blue, Lapis Lazuli has not lost anything of its brilliance, while other compositions have long since paled. Currently the blue pigment derived from Lapis lazuli is still applied especially for renovations, restorations and for those who love historical colors.
Many a cutter will make a face when cutting Lapis Lazuli, because as soon as the stone comes into contact with the cutting wheel, it will emanate a typical, slightly foul smell. An experienced cutter will thus recognize from the smell alone the satiation of color shown by the stone. When polishing the stone it must be treated gently and without too much pressure due to its low hardness. But no need to worry: a Lapis Lazuliwhich has dulled because of having been worn too often may be easily polished up. Lapis Lazuli is often surface sealed with colorless wax or synthetic resin. As long as no color is added during this procedure, the sealing only serves to improve the resistance of the stone against wearing. Still, it should definitely be protected from contact with acid substances or from extravagant exposure to sunlight.
For many people all over the world Lapis Lazuli is considered a stone of truth and friendship. The blue stone is reputed to bring about harmony in relationships and to help the jewelry wearer in being an authentic individual who may openly state his or her opinion.
Lapis Lazuli is an opaque stone consisting mainly of Diopside and Lasurite. It was created millions of years ago in the course of metamorphosis process turning chalk into marble stone. When unpolished, Lapis lazuli seems dull and dark blue, often with golden inclusions and whitish veins from marble.
Lapis Lazuli is a highly appreciated stone suitable for many jewelry settings, which shows remarkable stability ion the light of quickly changing fashion trends. This is not too surprising, after all, its fairy-tale color and its golden Pyrite reflections have been fascinating men and women for thousands of years. Be sure and browse our latest selection of Lapis Lazuli jewelry, from Lapis Lazuli pendants to bracelets.
