Lapus lazuli is a gorgeous blue semi-precious gemstone that adds a celestial radiance to any making jewelry project. It is an intense deep blue with gold flecks as you can see in the photo of the lapis beads. It drills easily for beads without splitting or crumbling, and can also be carved into amulets and figurines.
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According to Wikipedia, the main component of lapis lazuli is lazurite and the metallic gold specks are caused by the presence of pyrite, also known as fool's gold [1]. Lapis ornaments are frequently found in Asian style jewelry, such as in Tibetan design, or in Middle Eastern jewelry, often of Afghanistan origin. Mines in Afghanistan were the main source of lapis lazuli for the ancient world civilizations of Greece, Rome, and Egypt [2].Today, lapis lazuli, which is also known simply as lapis, is prized for its elegance and deep color. It is an opaque stone that permits no passage or partial passage of light, which is what gives the semi-translucent and translucent stones their radiance. Even so, the streaks and flecks of pyrite present in lapis lazuli catch the light in a subtle, yet dazzling, way.
Lapis lazuli pairs well with gold fittings, which match well with its pyrite gold flecks. It can also look good with sterling silver settings, especially in big chunky tribal-style bracelets or brooches. Try alternating lapis lazuli beads with the deep velvety black of black onyx beads for an eye-catching necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings. String a lapis carving on the end of a red silk cord with a tassel for an Asian-inspired pendant.
Other minerals that can look striking with lapis lazuli include bright, opaque gemstones that feature primary colors such as bright red coral, perhaps carved into square beads to contrast with round beads of lapis lazuli, or sky blue turquoise for a complementary and contrasting shade of blue. Lapis lazuli is revered by New Age practitioners and mystics for its connection with the sixth chakra, which in Hindu belief is related to the third eye and clairvoyance [3].
References:
1. Lapis Lazuli, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapis_lazuli Retrieved from Wikipedia on May 1, 2011.
2. Ibid.
3. Color and Crystals, a Journey Through the Chakras by Joy Gardner-Gordon. The Crossing Press. 1988. ISBN 0895942585. Page 109.
