Lapis Lazuli
One of the finest gemstones available in the market today that share a wonderfully rich history is lapis lazuli, or more popularly known simply as lapis. Its discovery dates as far back as 7000 BC and was largely found in the Indian subcontinents, which were eventually identified in the modern era as Balochistan, Pakistan. The resonant history of lapis lazuli is also delicately intertwined with the ancient Egyptian civilization and was actually among the highly prized treasures discovered from the recovered and unearthed pharaonic tombs. Up until today, the stone still enjoys such high regard and prominence in the society, most especially among stylish individuals to mainly use it as a fashion accessory. Available in a striking azure color, lapis lazuli contains 25 % - 40% lazurite, which is a felspathoid silicate mineral that is primarily composed of aluminum, silicon, sulfur, chlorine, and sodium.
But aside from its stunning color, a great attribute of any lapis lazuli jewelry is its highly interesting tiny flecks called golden pyrite that lightly dusts all throughout the intense blue color. Today, the major identified sources of lapis lazuli are found around d the Badakshan areas in Afghanistan. One of the most interesting facts is that mines that were used buy the ancient Sumerians and pharaohs’ centuries ago are still the very same set of mines that are primarily used and operated today. However, aside from the large deposits in Afghanistan, lapis lazuli are also extracted in Chile some regions in Russia, Burma, India, Siberia, and even in California and Colorado.
Because of its exceptional beauty, lapis lazuli is fashioned into jewelry items and decorative products today. In the world of art, the true worth of a premium quality lapis lazuli is invaluable. For many people who share the affinity for gemstones, a lapis lazuli are regarded to be a symbol of truth and friendship. The intense blue color is believed to enhance and promote harmony in relationships and at the same time its wearer is said to have no difficulty in giving out opinions and in seeking for the truth.
While we readily enjoy the beauty of this particular gemstone, many jewelry cutter face dire prospects in cutting a slab of lapis lazuli. Why? Many cutters are forced to turn up their noses when cutting the stone because as soon as it comes in contact with a cutting disc, it has a tendency to give off a rather undesirable smell. It can also be quite tricky to polish this particular stone since it basically requires a more expert hand so as to not subject it with too much pressure mainly because it it’s not as tough as the other stones. To effectively protect its wonderful finish, most of the lapis lazuli available in the market today is properly sealed with a synthetic resin or some type of colorless wax.
One determining factor for the value of this particular gemstone is in the intensity of color and those that doesn’t have any presence of calcite. There are some dealers who enhance the beauty of an inferior lapis by dyeing it with a wonderful shade of blue that it is popularly known for. However, at close inspection, you can easily detect this since it often has a discernable gray cast to it and often it is too blue that makes it appear unnatural. If you already have one in your jewelry collection, the proper care of a lapis lazuli includes keeping it well away from any acidic substances and avoid too much exposure to sunlight. In the world of fashion, the intense blue colors create a stunning effect on dark-skinned individuals, while people with fairer complexion are advised to choose the lighter shades of blue. So if you have an eye for beauty and a flair for fashion, a lapis lazuli jewelry can easily complete your wardrobe ensemble and guaranteed to attract admiring glances.