Lapis lazuli stone: features, meaning and properties

The first association at the sight of lapis lazuli is the firmament. Depending on the color, it can look like a blue cloudless sky in bright sunny weather, a dark blue pre-storm or evening sky, strewn with stars created by golden pyrite blotches.

In addition to the bright appearance, lapis lazuli is endowed with great energy potential - it is no coincidence that the stone has long been used as amulets and for the treatment of various diseases. From this article, you will learn in detail about its medicinal and magical properties, about what value the mineral has for humans today, who suits it, where it is mined, and how it is used.

The etymology of the word "lapis lazuli" goes back to the Arabic azur ("blue") or the Persian "lajward" ("heavenly stone"). As you can see, their meaning is almost identical, and it indicates the color of the mineral, which can vary from sky blue to deep blue, and even indigo. Until the 18th century it was called "lapis lazuli". However, today this word is used only in relation to the highest quality varieties of the mineral.

Lapis lazuli is considered a semi-precious stone with a low cost - the price for 1 gram does not exceed $ 5. Belongs to the class of silicate minerals. It is composed of aluminum, sodium, silicon and oxygen.

In addition to these basic elements, the composition of lapis lazuli can also include pyrite, calcite, feldspar, pyroxene and others.The first component even gives the mineral additional attractiveness - pyrite inserts look like golden threads, but there should be no more than 15% of them. But the rest of the impurities reduce the value and market value of lapis lazuli, which means they make it unsuitable for creating jewelry.

Minerals containing large amounts of calcite and feldspar are used mainly for the manufacture of various crafts and decoration of the interior and exterior walls of buildings.

One of the basic physical characteristics of precious and semi-precious stones is hardness. For this indicator, lapis lazuli is in the middle of the ten-point Mohs scale (5.5). The stone is quite fragile and easily damaged.

Another important parameter is transparency. It is low for lapis lazuli. Only the highest quality specimens can be classified as relatively transparent. In the form of crystals, lapis lazuli is practically not found in nature - as a rule, it is part of the marble slabs, from which it is then extracted.

The use of lapis lazuli is not limited to jewelry. Yes, jewelry is made of the highest quality stones. Most often this is jewelry, since the use of precious metals is not justified by a combination with a cheap heavenly mineral, even the most elite varieties. Although lapis lazuli in silver and even gold frames can be found in jewelry stores.

Since lapis lazuli is an inexpensive stone, and jewelry with it is usually used as amulets, a type of cabochon cut is used, as a result of which the mineral gets a smooth convex shape without edges. This method of processing allows you to emphasize the extraordinary color of the stone, and the lack of edges is explained by the insufficient brilliance and light refraction of the celestial mineral.

Lapis lazuli is also actively used as an ornamental material. Various objects of art are made from it: boxes, souvenirs, vases, figurines and other decorative and applied products. The most low-value varieties are used for interior decoration and cladding of building facades.

The history of lapis lazuli is 7 thousand years old. The first source of mineral extraction was the Badakhshan mines in Afghanistan. Another ancient lazurite deposit was located in Iran. These countries have already supplied lapis lazuli to Egypt, Greece, Rome, the states of Asia and Europe.

The mineral was in great demand as a jewelry and ornamental stone, as well as a finishing material for facing columns, fireplaces, walls of palaces and temples. In those days, lapis lazuli was a very rare mineral with a difficult mining method, so it was very expensive.

The stone was highly valued in Egypt as well. He personified the god Amon-Ra, so the priests painted their clothes with a powder made of lapis lazuli. The stone also symbolized the power of the Pharaoh - god on earth. The palaces of the Egyptian rulers were decorated with this mineral. Figurines made of lapis lazuli were also found in the tombs of the pharaohs, the entrance to which was guarded by scarab beetles, also made of heavenly stone. Even on the robes of Egyptian judges, a lapis lazuli figurine of the goddess of truth flaunts. Great importance was attached to lapis lazuli in China - it was part of the emperor's headdress.

But the use of lapis lazuli was not limited to this. Lapis lazuli powder was used in medicine - antiemetic drugs were made from it. Since ancient times, lapis lazuli has also served as a raw material for the production of ultramarine-colored paint, which was actively used by artists around the world until the 19th century, when its artificial analogue appeared.During the Renaissance, lapis lazuli was incredibly popular. Jewelry, magic amulets, various objects of art were made from it, and it was also actively used to decorate the walls and ceilings of architectural structures.

In Russia, the mineral appeared and began to be actively used since the reign of Ivan the Terrible. At first, it was imported from Afghanistan and Iran. But in the era of Catherine the Great, their own deposits of the lazurite mineral were discovered - they were located in the area next to Lake Baikal. In the decor of such architectural masterpieces as St. Isaac's Cathedral,

The most beautiful and expensive lapis lazuli is mined in Afghanistan in the northeastern province of Badakhshan (Badakhshan deposit). It is either of a uniform deep blue color, or with veins of pyrite - pyrite, which in appearance resembles golden threads that cross the mineral along and across. Equally highly valued is the Russian stone obtained from deposits in the southern Baikal region - on the banks of the Slyudyanka River.

The color palette of lapis lazuli is very wide: the color of the stone can be pale blue, turquoise, deep blue and violet, there may even be a greenish tint. The most expensive specimens are distinguished by a deep blue-violet color, a uniform texture and have no pattern at all. Minerals with yellow pyrite inserts are recognized as equivalent to them - they look very impressive and add additional nobility and luxury to lapis lazuli.

Lapis lazuli is usually divided into three groups in color.

• Niili. These are the highest quality stones. Their color is dark blue, sometimes turning into indigo. They either do not have any ornament or a golden pyrite pattern is allowed, but not more than 15%. It is to this category that Afghan lapis lazuli, which is recognized as the best today, belongs.

• Asmani. The stones of this intermediate group are characterized by a delicate, sky-blue color. They are valued less than Niili, but more than Sufis.

• Sufsi. It is the lowest quality lapis lazuli as it has a green tint. For jewelry purposes, Sufis are completely unsuitable - such stones are used mainly as elements of wall decor.

The following classification is based on the criterion of homogeneity. According to this parameter, minerals are also divided into three types.

• Uniform. These are the most expensive minerals. They are blue-violet in color, do not have any stripes or spots, and therefore are used for the production of jewelry. There are practically no foreign impurities in them. Only slight pyrite veins are allowed.

• Spotted with small veins. Impurities of carbonate, feldspar, apatite and other elements form streaks and stains on the stone, disrupting the homogeneity of its structure. Such minerals are used to create amulets and the production of decorative and applied products.

• Spotted with stripes. Due to the presence in their composition of a large amount of foreign impurities, such minerals are abundantly "painted" with light stripes and various patterns. They are absolutely unsuitable for jewelry purposes - stones of this group are used mainly for interior decoration.

Although lapis lazuli does not have high jewelry value, it has valuable magical and medicinal properties.

Lapis lazuli has a very light and positive energy, which has a beneficial effect both on the bearer of the stone and on the people around him.Therefore, the heavenly mineral is so popular with true magicians and healers, who with its help heal the soul and body of a person.

Among other properties.

• The stone clears the mind from vicious, destructive and negative thoughts, and the soul from envy, hatred, irritation and anger. A person gets rid of difficult memories and excessive self-criticism.
• It adjusts the one who wears it to higher vibrations, fills it with pure and bright thoughts that provoke a person to do good deeds.
• Creates an invisible protective barrier between its owner and people who wish him harm. It protects its owner from negative influence from the outside, redirecting negative energy to the one from whom it came.
• Restores mental balance, frees from anxious thoughts and makes its owner more calm and calm, effectively helps with panic attacks and depression. However, there is a downside to this property - the thought process and the speed of reaction slow down. Therefore, it is undesirable to wear a stone for doctors, firefighters, drivers of all vehicles, air traffic controllers and representatives of other professions who need to make quick decisions.
• It is believed that lapis lazuli attracts luck, wealth and prosperity into the life of its owner, helps to achieve new career heights and realize in the chosen profession. The most energetic mineral is the raw mineral, which is best kept on your desk or at home.
• It is useful for women to wear lapis lazuli earrings if they want to attract love and happiness into their lives, and at the same time protect themselves from envy, evil eye, damage and gossip.
• The stone stimulates change. If a person wants, but is afraid to change something, to part with the past in order to make room for a new one, then lapis lazuli gives him confidence in his strengths and determination, which will help make a leap into the unknown. This can apply to absolutely any area: change of work, type of activity or place of residence, changes in personal life.

Lapis lazuli is useful for many ailments.

• In ancient times, lapis lazuli powder served as a means for removing toxic substances from the body. He helped restore the stomach after poisoning and stopped vomiting. Also played the role of an anthelmintic drug.

• In the Middle Ages, it was believed that lapis lazuli products help those who suffer from underweight gain the missing pounds and overcome physical exhaustion.

• A lapis lazuli necklace or pendant is recommended for women who are expecting a baby. Under the protection of the stone, pregnancy will proceed favorably, the expectant mother will avoid toxicosis and give birth to a healthy baby.

• The stone has a beneficial effect on the female genital organs, preventing and reducing inflammation in them.

• Contemplating lapis lazuli is believed to help improve vision. If you want to increase its sharpness, then look at the stone 5-6 times a day for 7-10 minutes. And after working with a computer, the blue crystal effectively relieves stress from tired eyes.

• Helps people with breathing problems. Reduces the manifestations of allergies, reduces the intensity and frequency of asthma attacks. Effectively relieves dry cough.

• It has a beneficial effect on the circulatory and lymphatic systems, contributes to the speedy tightening of wounds and a decrease in pain, especially if you apply a stone to a sore spot. Cleans the blood from toxins and toxins, lowers cholesterol levels.

• Beads with lapis lazuli relieve skin diseases: teenage acne and various rashes on the face and body.

• Improves mental health and strengthens the nervous system. Helps with neuroses and depression, reduces stress levels, normalizes sleep.It is recommended to use the stone during meditation - this way you can quickly achieve a relaxed state.

• Those wishing to have thick, long and beautiful hair should add lapis lazuli earrings to the arsenal of means to achieve this goal. They will improve the condition of the curls, reduce their fragility and loss.

• Reduces blood pressure in hypertensive patients, and in hypotensive patients, on the contrary, raises it to the desired level, restoring vitality and cheerful mood

• Ensures the normal functioning of the endocrine system and eliminates various hormonal disorders. Helps with diseases of the thyroid gland.

• Increases the body's immunity, helps it fight viral and infectious diseases.

• Relieves headaches and prevents new migraine attacks.

• Promotes rejuvenation of the entire body, stimulating its renewal at the cellular level.

Of all the zodiac signs, lapis lazuli is the most suitable. Pisces, Aquarius and Libra. It is also recommended to wear jewelry with blue mineral fiery and unrestrained Sagittarius and Aries - the stone will soothe their hot temper, reduce the intensity of passions and emotions, make them more balanced.

The absolute zodiacal incompatibility of lapis lazuli can be traced with Cancer and Capricorn. - the stone does not suit them at all, and may even attract representatives of these signs of trouble and trouble into life. The stone is also contraindicated for Leo and Scorpio - it contradicts their bright personality and strong energy. Virgos and Gemini can wear a celestial mineral, but more as an aesthetic attribute - as a talisman, it will neither harm nor benefit them. It is better to opt for amulets with other stones.

All minerals belong to one of four elements: Earth, Water, Air and Fire.

Lapis lazuli is an earthly stone and goes well with its "classmates", which also include jasper, chalcedony, agate, malachite, jade, turquoise and others. This is the most harmonious and ideal, from an energy point of view, neighborhood: minerals will complement and enhance the beneficial properties of each other.

We tolerate lazurite and airy minerals. This group includes amethyst, transparent quartz, rock crystal, chrysoprase. However, the proximity to them is undesirable if you want to activate the magical properties of lapis lazuli - the stone, having such partners, will not work to the fullest.

And, finally, the last, fiery group, with its energy will only suppress earthly lapis lazuli, therefore, stones such as amber, coral, pyrope, almandine should not be in the same energy space with a celestial mineral. And the fiery diamond and ruby ​​with their luxury and grandeur will simply "kill" the calm lapis lazuli - both energetically and aesthetically.

Despite the fact that lapis lazuli is an inexpensive semiprecious mineral, it is faked quite often, and there are many options for fake analogues. They can be roughly divided into three groups.

• Other materials: most often ordinary glass or polymer plastic is “dressed up” in lapis lazuli, which is simply painted in the appropriate color. This fake is the cheapest, but it is also the easiest to identify it: the stone weighs more than the imitation material, and also has a low thermal conductivity - no matter how much you hold it in your hands, it will not get warm, but will remain the same cold. Water will also help identify a fake - it will partially wash off the applied paint.
• Cheaper ornamental stones rarely play the role of their heavenly "brother". These can be jasper, sodalite, dumortierite, chalcedony, cacholong, azurite. To calculate a fake, you just need to immerse the stone in water. If it gets wet evenly, then don't worry - you bought real lapis lazuli.But if you see an accumulation of small drops on its surface, then this indicates that paint was applied to the stone and in front of you, most likely, a fake. Lapis lazuli has one more important property: it looks most vivid and impressive in sunlight, and under artificial lighting, on the contrary, it looks dull and inexpressive. This parameter will also help you distinguish it from other minerals.
• Artificial lapis lazuli grown in laboratories is also often passed off as a creation of nature, and not of human hands. This fake is the most difficult to recognize, sometimes scammers are not even stingy to add the smallest particles of gold to it to create the effect of pyrite veins. But the pattern of natural lapis lazuli is more random and natural.

Another effective way to determine the authenticity of lapis lazuli is to throw it into a fire. A real stone is not afraid of this element - the flame is unable to damage it, from a very long exposure to high temperatures the mineral will simply become darker. But hardly anyone would want to conduct such an experiment and risk the purchased product.

If you want to dispel doubts about the authenticity of the stone in the safest and most guaranteed way, then it is best to send it to a laboratory for verification. There they will tell you for sure whether you bought real lapis lazuli or not.

Lapis lazuli does not require any special care. But in order not to spoil the appearance of the stone, it is important to know a few points.

• You need to store it in individual packaging - preferably in a velvet or suede bag.
• Avoid "collisions" of the mineral with other stones and hard objects.
• Lapis lazuli does not like long water procedures, so you should not go to the pool, bath or shower with it. However, you can use water to clean the stone, even ordinary tap water. But it is better, if the dirt is not very strong, just wipe the mineral with a damp cloth or napkin, and then wipe it dry.
• It is permissible to use cleaning chemicals, but not too aggressive and without the content of hydrochloric acid - under its influence, lapis lazuli will lose color and begin to decompose.
• The use of abrasive agents is contraindicated - they can damage the surface of the mineral.
• Lapis lazuli can take sun baths without restrictions - this will not fade it. On the contrary, in the sun the mineral will look even brighter and more dazzling, being recharged from the daylight by its positive energy.

The low market value and insignificant gem value of the stone is compensated by its most valuable properties. The heavenly mineral will give calmness, confidence and spiritual harmony to its owner, and can also become a wonderful decoration of his home.

For information on the properties and secrets of lapis lazuli, see the next video.