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Lapis Lazuli is a semi-precious gemstone with a rich blue colour that has captivated humanity for thousands of years. Its deep, celestial hue and gold speckles have made it a symbol of royalty and honour, gods and power, spirit and vision. Let's delve into the fascinating world of Lapis Lazuli—its meaning, uses, how to wear it, and intriguing history.
Lapis Lazuli Meaning: A Stone of Wisdom and Truth
The name Lapis Lazuli comes from the Latin word 'lapis', meaning 'stone', and the Persian 'lazhward', meaning 'blue'. This stone is known for its intense blue colour, which symbolises the power of wisdom and truth.
In metaphysical beliefs, Lapis Lazuli is considered a stone of protection that may be worn to guard against psychic attacks. It quickly releases stress, bringing deep peace. It brings harmony and deep inner self-knowledge. It encourages self-awareness, allows self-expression, and reveals inner truth.
In ancient times, the Egyptians used it as a sacred stone for protection in the afterlife. Today, it is often used in meditation to help increase psychic abilities and spiritual power.
Lapis Lazuli Uses: From Jewellery to Healing
Lapis Lazuli's striking blue hue makes it a popular choice for jewellery such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Its rich colour beautifully complements silver and gold settings. It is one of my favourite crystals to use when making jewellery.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lapis Lazuli has several practical uses, too. It's often ground into powder for use in cosmetics or as a pigment for paint. In fact, during the Renaissance period, artists used Lapis Lazuli pigment to create vibrant blues in their masterpieces.
Lapis Lazuli is believed to have various healing and soothing properties in crystal healing therapies. It is said to alleviate pain, especially that of migraines. It is also believed to benefit the respiratory and nervous systems, the throat, larynx, and thyroid, as well as cleanse organs, bone marrow, thymus, and the immune system. However, this article is not intended to give medical advice and you are encouraged to use crystals as complementary to health professional advice.
How to Wear Lapis Lazuli: Unleashing its Power
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing Lapis Lazuli. However, some believe wearing it close to the throat or third eye chakras can enhance its healing properties. This makes necklaces or earrings ideal pieces for this stone.
Due to its versatile colour, Lapis Lazuli jewellery can be worn with any outfit. However, pairing it with white or light-coloured clothing can make the blue pop even more.
One important tip when wearing Lapis Lazuli is to ensure it doesn't come into contact with chemicals or harsh detergents, which can damage the stone's surface.
History of Lapis Lazuli: A Gemstone of Antiquity
The history of Lapis Lazuli dates back over 6,000 years. It was highly prized by the ancient civilisations of Egypt and Mesopotamia for its beautiful colour and was often used in royal regalia.
In ancient Egypt, Lapis Lazuli was a symbol of truth used in amulets and scarabs. The famous funeral mask of Tutankhamun is inlaid with Lapis Lazuli and other gemstones.
During the Middle Ages in Europe, Lapis Lazuli began to be ground into powder and used as a pigment for paint – a practice that continued well into the Renaissance period.
Today, Lapis Lazuli remains a popular gemstone in jewellery making due to its intense blue colour and gold speckles, giving it a unique celestial appearance.
Lapis Lazuli is more than just a beautiful blue gemstone. Its rich history, spiritual meaning, and practical uses make it a fascinating stone. Whether you choose to wear it for its aesthetic appeal, healing properties or as a symbol of wisdom and truth, Lapis Lazuli will captivate and enchant.