Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Wisdom and Truth

Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock consisting mainly of the minerals lazurite, calcite and pyrite. The high lazurite content gives the stone its characteristic deep blue colour, which is often interspersed with golden pyrite inclusions. These golden inclusions give lapis lazuli a unique shimmer that is reminiscent of a starry night sky.

The stone is relatively soft, with a hardness of around 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, which means that it should be handled carefully to avoid scratches and damage. Lapis lazuli has been used as a gemstone for thousands of years, but also as a pigment in art, particularly for the production of ultramarine blue, one of the most precious pigments in history.

Lapis lazuli is known for its beneficial characteristics in terms of truth, wisdom and spiritual development. The stone is often used as an aid to promote self-knowledge and increase mental clarity. It supports the wearer in gaining deeper spiritual insights and recognising inner truth. Lapis lazuli helps to release mental blockages and clear the mind, making it an ideal stone for meditation and spiritual practices.

Lapis lazuli is also regarded as a stone of protection. It protects against negative energies and strengthens the wearer's aura. In healing stone therapy, lapis lazuli is often used to improve communication and promote the ability to express oneself clearly and authentically. It is also valued as a supporter of intuition and intuitive knowledge.

The most significant deposits of Lapis Lazuli are located in Afghanistan, particularly in the Badakhshan region, which has supplied the world with high-quality Lapis for over 6,000 years. This area produces Lapis Lazuli with an intense blue hue and golden pyrite inclusions, prized worldwide.

Other notable sources include Chile, Russia, and the United States. In Chile, Lapis Lazuli is mined in the Coquimbo region, offering a slightly lighter blue shade. In Russia, deposits near Lake Baikal are also recognised for their quality.

Lapis Lazuli forms in metamorphic rocks, particularly limestone, under high pressure and temperature. These conditions give rise to the vivid blue colour and golden pyrite inclusions that make the stone so unique.

Due to its softness, Lapis Lazuli requires careful handling to maintain its beauty. Follow these tips for proper care:

• Cleaning:Clean Lapis Lazuli jewellery with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaning agents or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
• Storage:Store Lapis Lazuli jewellery separately in a soft pouch or jewellery box to prevent scratches. Protect it from hard impacts and abrasive surfaces.
• Protection from Chemicals:Keep Lapis Lazuli away from perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaning products, as these can harm its surface and alter its colour.

In the Birthstone Collection by COEUR DE LION, Lapis Lazuli represents the month of September. Traditionally associated with truth, wisdom, and spiritual growth, it makes an ideal birthstone for those born in this month. More than just a jewellery piece, Lapis Lazuli is a symbol of mental clarity and profound spiritual insight.