Lapis Lazuli is dark blue possibly with white spots of calcite. It often
has specks of pyrite which look like gold. Lapis Lazuli has a hardness
rating of 5.5.
Lapis Lazuli is often dyed to improve its colour. Pierre Gilson Lapis
is one of the better imitations. Lapis has been imitated by dyed Jasper
and by paste with inclusions of copper.
Lapis Lazuli can easily be scratched or chipped. Water will dissolve
it's protective coatings.
Where Lapis is found
Lapis Lazuli is found in Afghanistan, Argentina, Canada, Chile, and
the US.
It is said that Lapis helps one understand the mind. It helps to expand
your viewpoint. It is good for connecting the heart and the mind when
worn over the heart. It is said to encourage
integrity in relationships and strengthen the immune system.
More Lapis Lore
Lapis was prized in both Babylonia and Egypt and often worn by
royalty.
Legend has it that Lapis Lazuli would protect the wearer from evil.
Lapis was a cure for melancholy and for certain types of fever.