Lapis lazuli is considered one of the most precious and sought-after gems in the history of mankind. The deep, royal ultramarine blue of this particular gemstone has entranced the human eye for thousands of years. To many cultures, it represents power, mystical wisdom, and the afterlife.
With both physical and spiritual significance in cultures from all over the planet, the true lapis lazuli meaning is as varied as the shades of blue each stone possesses. From medicinal elixirs to natural eye shadow, this blue gemstone is special for a multitude of reasons.
The rich blue color of lapis lazuli brings to mind a heavenly sky, deep and expansive with flecks of gold that mimic shooting stars. The combination of gold and intense blue makes this gemstone a rare and exciting crystal specimen, to this day a favourite of many crystal collectors around the world.
In this article, we will be answering some commonly asked questions about lapis lazuli, as well as providing clarity about lapis lazuli’s meaning, properties, and uses.
What Is Lapis Lazuli?
It is highly valuable crystal that has been mined for thousands of years. Originally discovered at the Sar-i-Sang deposit in Afghanistan, it was mined from the same location for over 7000 years strong, and to this day belongs to one of the world’s oldest mines.
The lapis stone falls into the category of a Metamorphic rock. That means its composition is inclusive of lazurite, sodalite, calcite and pyrite.
The lazurite is what gives lapis lazuli its dark blue coloration, while the calcite and sodalite add cloudiness and the pyrite provides a sparkly sheen. The combination of these minerals results in a gorgeous ultramarine stone that shimmers with gold flecks.
The deeper and darker a lapis stone’s blue shading is, the more valuable it is considered. Lighter lazuli with pale, white flecks is considered lower-grade and referred to as “denim” lapis.
What is the meaning of lapis lazuli?
Because of the rarity of this stone’s color, the overarching lapis lazuli meaning is strongly affiliated with royalty, gods, and spirituality. The intensity and depth of the lapis stone’s cobalt color contribute to thoughts of great power and universal wisdom.
For this reason, the ancient Egyptians utilized lapis lazuli as their symbol for the highest respect and spiritual status, embedding the gemstones into the sacred burial ornaments of their fallen rulers.
In addition to this, the Egyptians also inlaid the blue gemstone into jewelry and talismans that could be carried around as a symbol of wealth, influence, and connection to the divine.
Around this time it was also discovered that finely crushed lapis could produce a potent blue dye that could be applied to fabric or added to eye shadows for a striking statement.
There is also evidence to suggest that the Bible’s Old Testament describes lapis lazuli as the fifth stone on the breastplate of the High Priest. This too indicates a status of spiritual power and connection to divinity.
Overall, the meaning of lapis lazulis are one of royalty, power, truth, opulence, wisdom, and spiritual connection. By wearing the undeniably beautiful lapis lazuli stone, people can tap into their own divine potential and foresight.
Benefits And Healing Properties Of Lapis Lazuli
There are many exciting benefits and healing properties associated with this ancient and powerful gemstone. Since it was first discovered in 4000 B.C, people have used the lapis stone to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.
When it comes to physical healing, lazuli benefits the throat area, vocal chords, and larynx. Some people use this blue gemstone to soothe insomnia, regulate circulation, and support the menstrual cycle.
It can also help to heal ailments associated with sight and vision. Able to relieve eye infections or sties, warm, sterilized water infused with the lapis stone makes an effective eye bath.
This stone can also be supportive from an emotional and spiritual perspective. Because the meaning of it is so embroiled in the gift of truth, people who struggle with self-expression can benefit from wearing this blue gemstone and become more vocal about their needs.
It is one of the oldest and most revered stones in spiritual practises around the world. Healers, mystics, priests, and royalty have looked to lapis lazuli for guidance since the dawn of time, and even today it can stimulate spiritual wisdom and increase psychic abilities.
What Chakra Is Lapis Lazuli Used For?
There are two chakras that lapis lazuli is affiliated with: the throat chakra and the third eye chakra. Both of these chakras are represented by blue and purple shades, and pertain to elements of self-expression and spiritual connection.
- Throat chakra – this chakra is all about expression and communication. Many people struggle to voice their true emotions and thoughts, but a healthy throat chakra can help to promote the confidence and strength to break free.
It is the ideal aid for those who have low-functioning throat chakras. The darker blue hues represent the gift of truth and expression, bringing balance to throat chakras and advocating for healthy self-expression.
- Third Eye chakra – this chakra can be found at the brow and serves as a symbol of perception, awareness, and consciousness. Those with a weak connection to their spiritual side will tend to have a low-functioning third eye chakra, but lapis lazuli can change that.
The more purple, indigo shades of lapis lazuli are what connect it to the third eye chakra. Wearing and using this stone can promote deeper self-awareness and unlock the potential for receiving spiritual cues and visions from the divine.
Using stones like lapis lazuli to enhance your emotional and spiritual gifts is a great way to reconnect with yourself and approach life with more clarity.
How To Use Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli properties are best put to use when you incorporate the stone into your daily living routine. If you want to receive all the benefits of this powerful blue gemstone, here is a list of ways you can utilize It in your everyday lifestyle:
- Meditation – for a soothing and mindful experience, you can place your lapis lazuli crystal in your palm or close to your body while meditating.
- Feng Shui – the element that lapis lazuli represents is water, which means peace, stillness, and purity. You can position your lapis stone in the North-facing parts of your home that you want to encourage prayer or calm reflection.
- Jewelry – the best way to show off your lapis lazuli stone is to wear it on your body as jewelry. You can get lapis stone earrings, necklaces, or bracelets that look beautiful and provide you with positive energy all day long.
With these simple methods of everyday utilization, you can reap the many physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits that come with this special blue gemstone.
How To Cleanse And Charge Lapis Lazuli
All crystals need to be regularly cleansed and charged for optimal energetic results. For cleansing, you can gently wash your lapis lazuli in warm (never hot), soapy water, and dry it on a clean towel in the sunlight for a sparkling finish.
When it comes to charging your stone energetically, you can choose between sage-smudging, full moonlight bathing, or place it in a bowl of hematite crystals to absorb the old, stagnant energy.
However you decide to cleanse your crystals, make sure to always set a positive intention before doing so to help the recharge process be more successful.
Which Anniversary Does Lapis Lazuli Celebrate?
This vibrant blue gemstone is the wedding anniversary stone of choice for couples celebrating their 9th anniversary. After all, nine years is a long time. It is the perfect symbol of wisdom and power that married couples deserve for their hard-won relationship.
How Much Does Lapis Lazuli Cost?
For thousands of years, it has been a highly valuable and sought-after precious gem. However, in more recent times, the cost has been made more affordable for everyday people.
Currently, you may find a low-grade lapis stone for approximately $1 per carat, but more valuable specimens can cost as much as $100 – $150 per carat.
Lapis stones with deep cobalt coloration and bright gold speckles are rarer and therefore more valuable. While the lighter-shaded stones with pale flecks are more common and affordable.
Where to Buy Lapis Lazuli Online?
There are plenty of places to buy this gem online. From specialty online shops to online giants like Amazon.
Our recommendation is to browse Amazon first to get a sense of prices, variety, and quality. Then do a detailed comparison online. Another specialty retailer is TinyRituals, which only sells gemstones of grade AA or higher.
How Can You Tell If Lapis Lazuli Is Real?
The imitations of it are fairly common, so you will need to carefully analyse those you buy in order to ensure their authenticity. Fake lapis stones will tend to be glasser and more reflective, while true lapis lazuli is more matte and has a darker shade.
Some imitation lapis stones will also lack the tell-tale gold flecks that are comprised of calcite, so make sure your stone contains them. Real lapis lazuli is weighty, solid, and appears to have mystical depth when held under natural light.
Best Crystal Combinations For Lapis Lazuli
Crystals are always beautiful on their own. But combining them with certain other stones can enhance their powers and create even more balance in your environment. It pairs particularly well with turquoise, amethyst, agate, and white pearl.
By placing all of these crystals together in a trinket bowl, or even wearing jewelry that includes two or more of the above stones, you can magnify the lapis lazuli meaning and bring a whole new level of depth to your life.