Crystalpedia: Lapis Lazuli Meaning, Properties, and Benefits
Summary of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli, known for its striking deep blue color with specks of golden pyrite, is a stone associated with wisdom, truth, and inner vision. This ancient stone has been revered for thousands of years, often linked to royalty, spirituality, and enlightenment. With its strong connection to the third eye and throat chakras, Lapis Lazuli is highly regarded for enhancing intellectual ability, fostering open communication, and encouraging self-awareness.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Crystal Name | Lapis Lazuli |
| Color | Deep blue with gold or white specks |
| Chemical Composition | Mainly Lazurite, with calcite and pyrite |
| Mohs Hardness | 5 - 5.5 |
| Crystal System | Metamorphic rock (primarily cubic lazurite) |
| Chakras | Third Eye, Throat |
| Element | Water |
| Astrological Signs | Sagittarius, Libra |
| Metaphysical Properties | Truth, wisdom, inner vision, communication |
What is Lapis Lazuli?
Physical/Geological Properties
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, which gives it its intense blue color, along with calcite (white inclusions) and pyrite (gold flecks). Its deep blue hues, often interspersed with shimmering golden pyrite, have made it a prized stone throughout history, especially in art and jewelry.
Composition and Formation Process
Lapis Lazuli is formed through the metamorphism of limestone and is primarily composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. The stone is mined mainly in Afghanistan, Chile, and parts of Russia, where it has been sourced for thousands of years. The pyrite inclusions give the stone its distinctive metallic shimmer, adding to its allure.
Color Variation and Optical Characteristics
The most sought-after Lapis Lazuli is a rich, royal blue with small, sparkling flecks of pyrite. Lesser-quality stones may have a paler blue color and more calcite inclusions, which appear as white streaks or patches. The stone is opaque with a waxy luster and can be polished to a smooth, lustrous finish for use in jewelry and carvings.
History and Legend of Lapis Lazuli
Ancient Egyptian History
Lapis Lazuli was a highly treasured stone in ancient Egypt, associated with the gods and the heavens. It was used in amulets, burial masks, and royal ornaments, often reserved for royalty and priests. The Egyptians believed Lapis could guide the soul to the afterlife and protect against evil. The famous mask of Tutankhamun is adorned with Lapis, symbolizing divine power and eternal life.
Mesopotamian and Persian History
In Mesopotamia, Lapis Lazuli was considered a sacred stone, used to make seals, jewelry, and figurines. It was believed to offer protection and divine favor. The Sumerians saw Lapis as a stone of the gods, often referencing it in their mythology. In ancient Persia, Lapis Lazuli was revered for its celestial blue, symbolizing the starry night sky and the mysteries of the universe.
Medieval and Renaissance Europe
During the Renaissance, Lapis Lazuli was ground into powder and used to create ultramarine pigment, which was highly sought after by artists for its vibrant, long-lasting color. Only the wealthiest patrons could afford to commission artworks using ultramarine, which was often reserved for depictions of the Virgin Mary’s robes due to its association with purity and divinity.
Healing Properties of Lapis Lazuli
Feng Shui
In Feng Shui, Lapis Lazuli is associated with the Water element, symbolizing flow, wisdom, and emotional depth. It can be placed in the north sector of a space to enhance career prospects, communication, and intellectual endeavors. Its presence in a home or workspace encourages clarity of thought and strengthens the energy of wisdom and learning.
Spiritual Healing
Lapis Lazuli is a stone of truth and inner vision, helping individuals gain deeper insights and connect with their spiritual guides. It activates the third eye chakra, enhancing intuition, clairvoyance, and spiritual awareness. Lapis Lazuli also supports spiritual enlightenment and encourages self-discovery, making it an excellent stone for meditation and spiritual growth.
Body Healing
Physically, Lapis Lazuli is believed to support the throat and respiratory systems. It is said to alleviate issues such as sore throats, laryngitis, and respiratory disorders. Its calming energy also helps with stress relief and can promote restful sleep by soothing the nervous system. Lapis Lazuli is also used to support cognitive function, enhancing memory and learning abilities.
Metaphysical Properties
Lapis Lazuli is a powerful stone for intellectual pursuits, communication, and truth-seeking. It encourages self-awareness, honesty, and the expression of inner truth. Its energy helps to clear mental confusion, enhance decision-making, and foster clear communication in both personal and professional settings. The stone’s protective qualities shield the user from psychic attacks and negative influences.
Relationship Between Astrological Signs
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
Lapis Lazuli resonates strongly with Sagittarius, a Fire sign known for its quest for knowledge, adventure, and truth. Sagittarians are naturally curious and drawn to philosophical pursuits, making Lapis Lazuli a perfect stone to enhance their intellectual abilities and encourage deeper understanding. Lapis helps Sagittarians focus their energy on gaining wisdom, promoting clear communication, and fostering personal growth.
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
For Libra, an Air sign that values harmony, balance, and fairness, Lapis Lazuli enhances communication and intellectual clarity. Libras often strive for justice and truth, and Lapis Lazuli supports them in expressing their thoughts and ideas with confidence. The stone’s calming energy also helps Libras find inner peace and balance, making it easier for them to make decisions that align with their values.
Relationship Between Lapis Lazuli and Chakras
Lapis Lazuli is closely connected to the Third Eye Chakra, located between the eyebrows. This chakra governs intuition, insight, and psychic abilities. By stimulating the third eye chakra, Lapis Lazuli enhances inner vision, spiritual awareness, and the ability to access higher wisdom. It is an ideal stone for meditation, helping individuals gain deeper insights and connect with their spiritual guides.
Lapis Lazuli also resonates with the Throat Chakra, which governs communication, self-expression, and truth. By balancing this chakra, Lapis Lazuli helps individuals speak their truth with clarity and confidence. It encourages honest and compassionate communication, making it a valuable stone for those who struggle to express themselves or are working on improving their public speaking abilities.
Relationship Between Lapis Lazuli and the Chinese Five Phases
In Chinese philosophy, the Five Phases (Wu Xing)—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—represent different elements of nature and energy cycles. Lapis Lazuli, with its deep blue color and spiritual associations, is primarily connected to the Water element.
Water Element
Lapis Lazuli’s association with wisdom, clarity, and intuition aligns with the Water element, which symbolizes flow, adaptability, and emotional depth. The Water element also governs wisdom and knowledge, making Lapis Lazuli an excellent stone for enhancing intellectual abilities and spiritual insight. Its energy encourages the flow of ideas, emotional healing, and inner clarity.
Metal Element
Lapis Lazuli’s ability to enhance communication and intellectual clarity hints at its secondary connection to the Metal element. Metal represents structure, precision, and clear communication, all of which are supported by Lapis Lazuli’s energy. Using Lapis Lazuli in a Feng Shui space can help sharpen mental focus and encourage clear, direct communication.
How to Use Lapis Lazuli (Cleaning, Maintenance, Purification)
Lapis Lazuli is a relatively soft stone with a Mohs hardness of 5 - 5.5, making it vulnerable to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals. It should be cleaned using a soft, damp cloth or gently polished with a microfiber cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or chemical agents that may erode its surface.
For energetic purification, Lapis Lazuli can be smudged with sage or placed on a bed of crystals like clear quartz or selenite. You can also place Lapis Lazuli in a moonlit space overnight to cleanse and recharge its energy. Avoid prolonged exposure to water, as this can dull the stone’s surface.
How to Choose a Real/Good Lapis Lazuli
When choosing Lapis Lazuli, examine its color and inclusions. High-quality Lapis Lazuli will have an intense, even blue color with minimal calcite inclusions. Look for stones with small pyrite flecks, as they add to the stone’s natural beauty. Beware of stones that are too uniform in color, as these may be dyed or synthetic.
Lapis Lazuli should feel smooth to the touch, even when unpolished. Authentic Lapis is heavier than many stones due to its density, and it should appear vibrant and rich, rather than flat or overly dull. Stones with too many white (calcite) inclusions are considered lower quality.
Geological Properties of Lapis Lazuli
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Na, Ca)₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)(SO₄, S, Cl)₂ |
| Hardness | 5 - 5.5 on Mohs Scale |
| Crystal System | Not applicable (Rock formation) |
| Specific Gravity | 2.7 - 2.9 |
| Luster | Dull to Vitreous |
| Color Variations | Deep Blue with Pyrite flecks, White calcite streaks |
Popular Products and Pairing Stones
Lapis Lazuli is a popular choice for jewelry, carvings, and crystal grids due to its vibrant color and powerful energy. It can be combined with various stones to enhance its properties:
- Lapis Lazuli and Clear Quartz: Amplifies spiritual insight and clarity.
- Lapis Lazuli and Amethyst: Enhances intuition and spiritual growth.
- Lapis Lazuli and Rose Quartz: Encourages heart-centered communication and emotional healing.
Lapis Lazuli is often found in tumbled stones, beaded bracelets, pendants, and ornamental carvings. Its royal blue color and historic significance make it a favorite for collectors and spiritual practitioners alike.
Final Thoughts
Lapis Lazuli is a stone of wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment. With its rich history and deep metaphysical properties, it remains one of the most revered stones in human history. Whether used in jewelry, spiritual practice, or simply admired for its beauty, Lapis Lazuli offers profound insight, clarity, and protection, helping individuals to communicate their truth and access higher knowledge. It is a powerful stone for those seeking personal and spiritual growth, making it a timeless addition to any collection.