Lapis Lazuli Beads

Lapis lazuli beads are composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, but often have golden pyrite or white calcite inclusions. The lapis lazuli with significant white calcite inclusions is called "blue denim lapis." Lapis lazuli is a name from both Latin, where lapis means stone, and Arabic, where azul means blue. Significant sources include Afghanistan, Russia, and Chile.

Ground lapis lazuli was used as a pigment to produce the blue in ultramarine paint, which was used by artists until the nineteenth century. One of the oldest gemstones, it was included in jewelry making as early as the 4th millenium B.C. Aside from its use in jewely supplies, it has also frequently been carved into vases and figurines.

It is a birthstone for September and December. However, the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912 declared turquoise and topaz the official December birthstones. It is thus associated with the zodiac symbols of Libra and Capricorn. In Western cultures, it is the stone symbolizing the 7th and 9th wedding anniversaries. Some believe that it protects one from evil and melancholy.

In jewelry making, lapis lazuli gemstone beads go very well with white pearls, red coral, blue chalcedony, azurite malachite, blue lace agate, sky quartz, and howlite. It is traditionally paired with gold.

common treatments: occasionally oiled, often dyed

special care: avoid impact, abrasion, and harsh chemicals

hardness: 5.5