Lapis Lazuli
Contemporary jewelry designers often use lapis lazuli in their jewelry (perhaps you remember the lapis and diamond donut earrings that Christine Taylor wore to a recent movie premiere).Lapis (formerly called sapphirus) is opaque, deep blue in color, and flecked with varying amounts of gold (pyrite) and/or white calcite. The gem rates at about 5.5 on the Mohs Scale (vs. diamond at 10). Quality lapis is typically more expensive that many other colored gemstones, but much of the lapis on today's market has been dyed to make it a deeper blue and to disguise white calcite markings. Dyes are not permanent.
Ancient cultures used lapis lazuli for jewelry and ornaments, but also ground the gemstone in order to acquire deep blue pigments that could be used for paint and makeup. Afghanistan has been a constant source of lapis, but it is also found in other areas.
Lapis Lazuli Used for Healing
- Lapis is traditionally regarded as a pain reliever
- Some feel that lapis lazuli can help lower blood pressure and act as a blood and lymph system purifier
- Lapis is regarded as one of the gemstones that can enhance psychic abilities
Lapis Jewelry (Buy Direct)
Disclaimer: Information about crystal healing is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care. My crystal healing articles are a quick introduction to traditional beliefs that specific crystals and gemstones can be used in ways that go beyond simple body decor. If you are reading this page, you must be interested in crystal healing; for more in-depth information, consult with an alternative health care practitioner or enroll in a crystal therapy course of study.
For more information, visit: About.com's Holistic Healing Web site.
