Genuine lapis necklace small barrel beads 17in

Description

A beautiful Lapis Necklace Small Barrel Beads 17in

Lapis lazuli, commonly known as lapis, is a deep-blue metamorphic rock used as a semi-precious stone that has been prized since antiquity for its intense color. Here are some key points about lapis lazuli:

Composition

• Mineral Components: Lapis lazuli is primarily composed of the mineral lazurite, which gives it its distinctive blue color. It also contains calcite (white), pyrite (gold flecks), and other minerals such as sodalite and hauyne.
• Color: The best-quality lapis lazuli is a deep, uniform blue, often with tiny specks of golden pyrite, which can resemble stars in the night sky. Variations in color can include lighter blue or greenish-blue hues, depending on the mix of minerals.

Historical Significance

• Ancient Civilizations: Lapis lazuli has been valued for thousands of years and was highly prized by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, Greeks, and Romans. It was used for jewelry, carvings, seals, and amulets.
• Egypt: The ancient Egyptians used lapis lazuli for amulets, jewelry, and as an eye shadow (ground into powder). It was also used in the funeral mask of Tutankhamun.
• Renaissance: During the Renaissance, lapis lazuli was ground into powder and used to create ultramarine, a vivid blue pigment used by artists such as Vermeer and Titian.

Sources

• Afghanistan: The primary source of the finest lapis lazuli is the Sar-e-Sang mines in the Badakhshan region of northeastern Afghanistan, which have been mined for over 6,000 years.
• Other Sources: Lapis lazuli is also found in Chile, Russia, Canada, the United States, and Myanmar, though these deposits generally produce lower-quality material compared to Afghan lapis.

Uses

• Jewelry: Lapis lazuli is commonly used in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
• Carvings: Artisans create intricate carvings, sculptures, and inlays from lapis lazuli.
• Decorative Items: Lapis is used in various decorative objects, including vases, boxes, and mosaics.
• Pigment: Historically, it was ground into a powder to create ultramarine pigment for painting and illuminated manuscripts.

Care

• Durability: Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratches and damage.
• Cleaning: Clean lapis lazuli with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to water, as it can damage the stone.

Symbolism and Beliefs

• Spiritual and Healing: Lapis lazuli has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. It is believed to enhance intellectual ability and stimulate the desire for knowledge.
• Protective Stone: Many cultures consider lapis lazuli a protective stone, providing a shield from negative energy and bringing peace and harmony.

Lapis lazuli continues to be a highly valued gemstone, cherished for its stunning blue color, historical significance, and spiritual properties.