Jewelry has long been cherished not just for its beauty, but also for its deeper meanings and connections to ancient traditions. Among the many gemstones that have captivated the human imagination, Lapis Lazuli stands out with its deep, celestial blue color and storied history. Known as the "Stone of Wisdom," Lapis Lazuli has been adored by royalty, artists, and spiritual seekers for thousands of years. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of Lapis Lazuli, how to identify genuine Lapis Lazuli, how to clean it, and how you can incorporate it into your jewelry collection to elevate your style and spiritual well-being.

The Meaning and History of Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli, often referred to simply as "Lapis," is a vibrant blue metamorphic rock composed mainly of lazurite, with calcite, pyrite, and other minerals that add to its unique appearance. Its rich blue color, speckled with golden flecks of pyrite, resembles the night sky filled with stars, making it a visually striking gemstone.

Spiritual Significance. The Birthstone of September or December?

Lapis Lazuli is a unique gemstone that often causes confusion due to its association with two different months—September and December. This dual association stems from its rich history and varying interpretations of birthstones over time. Traditionally, Lapis Lazuli has been recognized as the birthstone for September, symbolizing wisdom, truth, and royalty. However, in some modern interpretations and lists of gemstones, it is also designated as a birthstone for December, often alongside turquoise and tanzanite. This overlap highlights the stone's enduring popularity and significance across cultures.

In terms of zodiac signs, Lapis Lazuli is particularly linked to Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 to January 19). Those born under these signs are believed to benefit from the stone's calming and clarifying energies. Lapis Lazuli is thought to enhance intuition and promote self-awareness, making it an ideal companion for those on a journey of self-discovery.

Additionally, Lapis Lazuli is closely associated with the Third Eye and Throat Chakras. Its deep blue color is said to stimulate the Third Eye Chakra, enhancing intuition and insight, while its connection to the Throat Chakra promotes clear communication and self-expression. Wearing Lapis Lazuli is believed to help individuals articulate their thoughts and feelings, encouraging honesty and compassion in their interactions.

In summary, whether as a birthstone for September or December, Lapis Lazuli serves as a powerful symbol of wisdom and self-expression, making it a meaningful choice for anyone seeking to enhance their spiritual journey or simply add a beautiful piece of jewelry to their collection.

Symbolism and Uses

Lapis Lazuli symbolizes wisdom, truth, and royalty. Because of its intense blue color, it is often associated with the heavens and divine favor. It is said to bring deep peace, harmonize physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual energies, and encourage honesty and compassion.

How to Wear Lapis Lazuli Jewelry

Wearing Lapis Lazuli jewelry is not only a fashion statement but also a way to harness the stone's powerful energies. Here are some tips on how to style and wear Lapis Lazuli jewelry to make the most of its beauty and meaning:

1. Lapis Lazuli Necklaces

Lapis Lazuli necklaces are an excellent way to bring the stone's calming energy close to the heart. You can opt for a single large pendant that serves as a statement piece or choose delicate beaded strands for a subtler look. Pair a Lapis Lazuli necklace with neutral or earthy tones to make the blue color pop, or wear it against a white or black backdrop for a classic, elegant appearance. For spiritual seekers, wearing a Lapis Lazuli pendant near the throat chakra can aid in clear communication and speaking one’s truth.

2. Lapis Lazuli Rings

Rings with Lapis Lazuli are a great choice for those who prefer subtle yet striking jewelry pieces. The deep blue stone can be set in silver, gold, or even rose gold for a modern twist. Because of its royal and luxurious feel, Lapis Lazuli rings work well with formal wear, making them perfect for evening events or professional settings. Wearing a Lapis Lazuli ring on your dominant hand can also help you manifest wisdom and confidence in your daily interactions.

3. Lapis Lazuli Bracelets

A Lapis Lazuli bracelet can be both a bold fashion statement and a protective amulet. Whether you prefer a cuff-style bracelet, a delicate chain with Lapis Lazuli beads, or a stretch bracelet, these pieces are versatile and easy to layer with other gemstone bracelets. For a bohemian look, consider stacking Lapis Lazuli with other stones such as turquoise or moonstone. Wearing a Lapis Lazuli bracelet on your left wrist is believed to help absorb its calming energy, while wearing it on the right wrist amplifies your ability to project confidence and wisdom.

4. Lapis Lazuli Earrings

Lapis Lazuli earrings, especially in drop or dangle styles, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit. Pair them with a matching necklace or bracelet for a cohesive look. For everyday wear, stud earrings with small Lapis Lazuli stones can offer a pop of color while maintaining subtlety. The rich blue hue contrasts beautifully with both light and dark hair colors, adding a luxurious touch to your overall appearance.

5. Mixing and Matching with Other Stones 

Lapis Lazuli pairs beautifully with other gemstones like clear quartz, turquoise, moonstone, and amethyst. Combining these stones can enhance the metaphysical properties of each, providing balance and harmony. For example, pairing Lapis Lazuli with clear quartz amplifies its spiritual properties, while combining it with moonstone can bring a sense of peace and emotional balance.

6. Mens jewelry with Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is not just for women; it is a fantastic choice for men’s jewelry as well. Consider Lapis Lazuli cufflinks, tie pins, or even beaded bracelets to add a touch of elegance to men's accessories. The deep blue tone adds a masculine and sophisticated edge to any outfit, making it ideal for both formal and casual settings.

How to Identify Genuine Lapis Lazuli

With the popularity of Lapis Lazuli, there are many imitations on the market, often made from dyed stones or low-quality substitutes. To ensure you're purchasing genuine Lapis Lazuli, keep these points in mind:

1. Color and Flecks: Authentic Lapis Lazuli has a rich, royal blue color often speckled with gold-like flecks of pyrite. It should not be overly uniform; natural stones have variations. If the blue color looks too vibrant or artificial, it could be a dyed imitation.

2. Texture: Real Lapis Lazuli is slightly porous and matte. It should feel cool to the touch and not too glossy or plastic-like.

3. Hardness Test: Lapis Lazuli is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of around 5-6. A scratch test can help differentiate it from harder stones, but it is advisable to perform this test with caution.

4. Density: Genuine Lapis Lazuli is quite dense. If you have a piece of Lapis Lazuli in hand, feel its weight. It should feel heavier than a fake or dyed substitute.

How to Wear Lapis Lazuli Jewelry Without Damaging It

Wearing Lapis Lazuli jewelry allows you to enjoy its beauty and metaphysical properties, but it's essential to take care to avoid damaging this delicate gemstone. To protect your Lapis Lazuli, always put it on after applying makeup, perfumes, or lotions, as these substances can tarnish or stain the stone. When engaging in physical activities or while swimming, it's best to remove your Lapis Lazuli pieces to prevent scratches or exposure to harsh chemicals. Additionally, avoid prolonged sun exposure, which can fade its vibrant blue color. When storing your jewelry, keep it in a soft pouch or lined box, separated from other pieces to prevent scratches. By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your Lapis Lazuli jewelry remains beautiful and vibrant for years to come.

How to Clean Lapis Lazuli Jewelry 

Lapis Lazuli is a delicate gemstone that requires careful cleaning to maintain its luster and beauty:

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, bleach, or ultrasonic jewelry cleaners on Lapis Lazuli as these can damage the stone.

2. Clean with a Soft Cloth: Gently wipe your Lapis Lazuli jewelry with a soft, damp cloth. You can use a mild soap solution, but be sure to rinse it well and dry it thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.

3. Avoid Soaking: Do not soak Lapis Lazuli in water, as the stone is porous and can absorb moisture, leading to discoloration or damage over time.

4. Store Properly: Store Lapis Lazuli jewelry separately from harder stones to avoid scratches. Keep it in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box.

5. Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure: Extended exposure to sunlight can fade the color of Lapis Lazuli. Keep your jewelry away from direct sunlight when not in use.

Conclusion 

Lapis Lazuli is more than just a beautiful gemstone; it is a symbol of wisdom, truth, and spiritual growth. By incorporating Lapis Lazuli jewelry into your collection, you not only enhance your style but also invite the stone’s calming and empowering energies into your life. Knowing how to identify genuine Lapis Lazuli and how to care for it ensures that your jewelry pieces remain beautiful and meaningful for years to come.