Necklace With Raw Lapis Lazuli

Physical Properties

• Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(SO₄,S,Cl)₂, primarily composed of lazurite, with calcite, pyrite, and other minerals
• Color: Deep blue, often with gold flecks of pyrite and white calcite veining
• Crystal System: Isometric
• Hardness: 5 - 5.5 on the Mohs scale
• Specific Gravity: 2.7 - 2.9
• Transparency: Opaque
• Luster: Dull to vitreous
• Streak: Light blue

Optical Properties

• Refractive Index: Approximately 1.50
• Birefringence: None (isotropic)
• Pleochroism: None
• Fluorescence: Generally none, though some specimens may fluoresce under UV light due to calcite inclusions

Healing and Metaphysical Properties

• Energy: Lapis lazuli is considered a stone of wisdom, truth, and self-awareness. It is believed to stimulate intellectual ability and enhance communication.
• Chakras: Primarily associated with the Throat Chakra and Third Eye Chakra
• Emotional Healing: Thought to bring deep peace and enhance self-expression and creativity. It is also believed to relieve stress and foster harmony in relationships.
• Physical Healing: Used in crystal healing practices to support the respiratory and nervous systems, throat, vocal cords, and immune system. It is also thought to help alleviate pain and inflammation.

Uses

• Jewelry: Popular in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets due to its striking color and historical significance. Often cut as cabochons or beads.
• Decorative: Widely used in carvings, inlay work, mosaics, and ornamental objects.
• Historical: Historically used to create ultramarine pigment for painting and as a prized material in ancient artifacts and jewelry.

Care

• Cleaning: Should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, which can damage the stone.
• Durability: Lapis lazuli is relatively soft and can be scratched easily. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.

Sources

• Major Sources: Lapis lazuli is primarily found in Afghanistan, with significant deposits also in Chile, Russia, Myanmar, Pakistan, and the United States.

Identification Tips

• Color and Inclusions: Lapis lazuli's deep blue color, often with gold flecks of pyrite and white calcite veining, can help in its identification. However, it can be confused with other blue stones such as sodalite or azurite.
• Testing: Gemological testing can help distinguish lapis lazuli from similar-looking minerals through its specific gravity, refractive index, and the presence of pyrite and calcite inclusions.

Lapis lazuli's rich history, vibrant color, and metaphysical properties make it a cherished gemstone among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Its diverse applications in ornamental and historical contexts underscore its enduring appeal and significance.