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 Lapis PendantLAPIS LAZULI - The name of the gem is derived through the Medieval Latin lapis lazulus, from the Arabic word lazward, from which the word azure comes; but according to the descriptions of Pliny the Elder, the ancient Romans called it sapphires. The name sapphire was subsequently applied to the blue variety of corundum. Lapis lazuli is a “rock,” because it consists of an association of minerals.It has a uniform, massive or sometimes granular appearance, with fairly distinct crystals. It is semi-opaque or opaque, with a surface that can take a good polish. It is a strong but lively blue, sometimes with a hint of violet. It often contains grayish or off-white patches or veins, consisting of distinct, interwoven crystals which are minutely fringed at the edge of the patches, interpenetrated by and interwoven with the minute crystals of blue. The presence of white patches reduces the gem’s value. The most highly prized varieties are those uniformly colored, preferably without a violet tinge. It often contains minute, scattered crystals of pyrite, which do not detract from its value. It is made into spherical or curved beads and even faceted, polyhedral ones, in which the flat facets can take a very good polish. It is also fashioned into carved gems, boxes, mosaics, small ornaments, vases and figurines, the largest of which may be tens of centimeters in size. The Egyptians used for their cylindrical seals. On the Moh's scale Lapis is a 5.0 The particular, very attractive color and speaking with minute crystals of pyrite gave lapis lazuli an unmistakable appearance. The best quality lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan, where it has been mined since remote antiquity. The ancient Egyptians probably obtained their supplies from there. It is also found in Chile, but usually with numerous light patches and veins. Much smaller quantities come from the Soviet Union, Burma, Pakistan, Angola, the United States, and Canada. It was an is much imitated, by glass, sometimes containing minute specks of metal to simulate pyrite, by stained chalcedony, and by deep blue sintered, aggregate of minute grains of synthetic spinel. A product has recently appeared on the market, which is extremely homogeneous, very deep, blue with a violet tinge and scattered with minute fragments of pyrite. This is called synthetic lapis lazuli, although it does not correspond exactly with the natural stone in chemical composition. The white patches in low quality lapis lazuli are sometimes colored blue and this practice is not always easy to detect. This stone is good for total awareness and high intensity etheric stone. Stone of royalty. Strengthens physical body with spiritual awakening. Harmonizes inner and outer. Will open heart to love and beauty. Increases and enhances psychic abilities. Activates throat, third eye and crown chakras, emotional balancing, PMS, protection, insomnia, dreaming, women’s healing, depression, and infections. 3rd eye opener.
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