Lapis Lazuli has captivated humanity for millennia with its deep, celestial blue hue, often flecked with golden pyrite inclusions that resemble a starry night sky. This metamorphic rock, composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, has traversed a long and storied path through human history, serving as a symbol of royalty, a medium for priceless art, and a subject of spiritual reverence. While its status in modern birthstone lists is a subject of nuanced debate, its cultural and historical significance is undeniable. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, understanding Lapis Lazuli requires an exploration of its geological origins, its journey through ancient civilizations, its scientific properties, and the evolving traditions that seek to assign it a specific place in the calendar.
The question of whether Lapis Lazuli is a birthstone is not straightforward. In the most common modern lists, standardized by organizations such as the American Gem Society and the National Association of Jewelers, it is not officially designated for any specific month. However, alternative traditions, particularly in the United Kingdom and older historical calendars, strongly associate it with the month of September. Furthermore, it is frequently cited as an alternative or traditional birthstone for December. This discrepancy between official and traditional lists highlights the fluid nature of birthstone associations, which have evolved over centuries from ancient beliefs to contemporary commercial standards. This article will delve into the multifaceted identity of Lapis Lazuli, examining its historical lore, geological formation, gemological properties, and the specific claims regarding its place as a birthstone.
History and Lore
The history of Lapis Lazuli is as rich and deep as its color. Its use dates back thousands of years, with some of the earliest known artifacts originating from the Indus Valley Civilization around 3000 B.C. The stone was highly prized in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Roman Empire, where it was not only used for jewelry and ornaments but also ground into powder for use in cosmetics and pigments.
In ancient Egypt, Lapis Lazuli was a symbol of royalty and honor. Judges wore amulets made from the stone, believing it to be a sign of veracity and truth. The famous funerary mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun was adorned with Lapis Lazuli, demonstrating its high value and importance in the afterlife. The stone’s name itself provides a clue to its origins and perception. The term "Lapis Lazuli" is derived from the Latin word lapis, meaning "stone," and the Arabic word azul, meaning "blue." Some sources trace its historical name to the region of Lajevard in ancient Persia, a name that translates to "heaven" or "sky," leading to its epithet as the "Stone of Heaven" or "Stone of the Gods."
During the Renaissance, Lapis Lazuli achieved a new form of immortality. Ground into a fine powder and mixed with oil, it created the precious pigment ultramarine. This vibrant blue was more expensive than gold and was reserved for the most important subjects in religious paintings, most notably the robes of the Virgin Mary. Its use in art cemented its association with divinity and holiness in the Christian tradition. Pliny the Elder, the Roman philosopher and naturalist, described the stone as "opaque and sprinkled with specks of gold," a perfect description of its characteristic appearance. In the old Jewish tradition, the stone was emblematic of success, as it was believed to combine the blue of the heavens with the golden glitter of the sun.
Geological Formation and Sources
Lapis Lazuli is not a single mineral but a metamorphic rock composed of several minerals, with lazurite being the primary component responsible for its blue color. Other minerals commonly found within the rock include calcite (which appears as white veins or patches) and pyrite (which forms the characteristic golden flecks). The formation of Lapis Lazuli occurs under specific high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in the Earth's crust, typically in the contact zones between limestones and magmatic intrusions.
The primary and historically most significant source of high-quality Lapis Lazuli is the Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan. Mines in this region, particularly around Sar-e-Sang, have been a source of the gemstone for over 6,000 years. The stone from these mines is renowned for its intense, deep blue color with minimal calcite, making it the benchmark for gemological quality.
Other significant sources are found in the Andes mountains of Chile. The mines near Ovalle and Coquimbo produce Lapis Lazuli that often has a lighter, greenerish-blue hue due to a higher concentration of the mineral diopside and typically contains more calcite. While still used for jewelry and carvings, Chilean Lapis is generally considered less valuable than the Afghan variety.
Russia also has deposits of Lapis Lazuli, specifically west of Lake Baikal in the Siberian region. These deposits were historically important and were a source for the Russian imperial court. More recently, large deposits have been discovered in the Canadian Arctic, though these are less commercially exploited compared to the traditional sources. The stone is also found in Angola, Italy, and the United States, but these locations are not considered major producers.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical characteristics of Lapis Lazuli is essential for identifying its quality and appreciating its unique beauty. As it is a rock rather than a single mineral, its properties can vary depending on the proportion of its constituent minerals. The following table summarizes its key gemological properties based on information from the provided sources.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | A rock primarily composed of Lazurite (a complex silicate mineral), with varying amounts of Calcite and Pyrite. |
| Color | Deep, celestial blue to greenish-blue, often with white calcite veins and golden pyrite specks. |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 5 to 5.5. This makes it relatively soft compared to many other gemstones. |
| Crystal System | As a rock, it does not have a single crystal system. Lazurite, its main mineral component, is cubic. |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) to dull when polished as a cabochon. |
| Transparency | Opaque. |
| Refractive Index | Approximately 1.50 (for the lazurite component). |
| Sources | Afghanistan (primary), Chile, Russia, Canadian Arctic. |
The hardness of Lapis Lazuli, rated between 5 and 5.5 on the Mohs scale, is a critical factor for its care and use. This relatively low hardness means it is susceptible to scratching from harder materials and can be damaged by harsh chemicals. Consequently, it is almost always cut and polished as a cabochon (a smooth, rounded dome) rather than faceted, which helps to showcase its uniform color and protect it from damage. The presence of pyrite inclusions is often seen as a mark of authenticity, as synthetic or imitation Lapis Lazuli (such as dyed jasper or howlite) typically lacks these natural golden flecks.
The Birthstone Debate: September, December, and Alternative Associations
The status of Lapis Lazuli as a birthstone is complex and varies significantly depending on the list being referenced. The most widely accepted modern birthstone list, established in the United States in 1912 by the Jewelers of America, is used by the American Gem Society and most commercial jewelers. According to this list, Lapis Lazuli is not an official birthstone for any month. The modern birthstone for September is Sapphire, and for December, it is Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon.
However, this official designation does not tell the whole story. Many sources point to strong traditional and alternative associations:
- September: Several sources identify Lapis Lazuli as the traditional birthstone for September. This is particularly noted in older calendars and in the United Kingdom. While Sapphire is the modern choice, Lapis Lazuli is often presented as a meaningful alternative, its deep blue hue resonating with the transition from summer to autumn.
- December: Lapis Lazuli is also frequently celebrated as a birthstone for December. In this context, it serves as a powerful alternative to the lighter blues of Turquoise and Tanzanite. Its darker, more introspective color is said to resonate with the energy of the winter solstice, a time for reflection and renewal.
- Virgo: One source explicitly states that Lapis Lazuli is a Virgo birthstone. Virgo's dates (late August to late September) overlap with the traditional September birthstone assignment, providing a logical connection.
- Zodiac Signs: Beyond its monthly associations, Lapis Lazuli is strongly linked to several zodiac signs. It is most prominently associated with Sagittarius, supporting the sign's quest for truth, knowledge, and adventure. It is also said to have beneficial connections to Libra and Taurus, where it can help balance energies and facilitate clear decision-making.
This divergence in lists underscores a key point: birthstone traditions are not monolithic. They are a blend of ancient lore, commercial standardization, and personal preference. While Lapis Lazuli may not be the "official" stone for September in modern American lists, its deep historical roots and cultural significance provide a compelling case for its inclusion in alternative and traditional frameworks.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attached to Lapis Lazuli is as profound as its color. Across cultures and eras, it has been regarded as a stone of wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight.
- Wisdom and Truth: Its association with the heavens and the sky led ancient civilizations to view it as a symbol of cosmic wisdom and divine truth. It was believed to enhance intellectual ability and stimulate the desire for knowledge.
- Royalty and Power: From the pharaohs of Egypt to the nobility of medieval Europe, Lapis Lazuli was a stone of royalty. Its use in jewelry, crowns, and ceremonial objects signified power, honor, and social status.
- Protection: In many traditions, Lapis Lazuli was considered a powerful protective stone. It was believed to guard against psychic attacks, negative energy, and ill will. Ancient soldiers would often wear it or use it in amulets for protection in battle.
- Spiritual Growth: In modern metaphysical beliefs, Lapis Lazuli is known as the "Stone of Self-Awareness" and "Stone of Truth." It is strongly associated with the Third Eye Chakra, the center of intuition and inner vision. By stimulating this chakra, it is believed to enhance intuition, promote spiritual enlightenment, and facilitate deep meditation.
- Communication: As a stone linked to the Throat Chakra, Lapis Lazuli is also believed to aid in clear and honest communication. It is said to help one speak their truth with confidence and overcome fears of public speaking or self-expression.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its composition and relatively low hardness, Lapis Lazuli requires specific care to maintain its beauty and integrity.
- Hardness and Durability: With a Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5, Lapis Lazuli is softer than many popular gemstones like quartz, topaz, and sapphire. It can be easily scratched by harder materials, including dust, so it should be stored carefully, ideally in a soft pouch or separate compartment in a jewelry box.
- Cleaning: The best method for cleaning Lapis Lazuli is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is crucial to avoid harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, bleach, and ammonia, as these can damage the stone and alter its color. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should never be used, as the vibrations and heat can cause fractures or damage any treatments the stone may have undergone.
- Avoiding Treatments: Some Lapis Lazuli on the market may be dyed or impregnated with oil or wax to enhance its color and luster. These treatments can be sensitive to chemicals and heat, making gentle cleaning even more important. When purchasing, it is always advisable to ask if the stone has been treated.
Conclusion
Lapis Lazuli occupies a unique position in the world of gemstones. While it may not hold a spot on the official modern birthstone lists, its historical and cultural significance far outweighs any bureaucratic classification. It is a stone that has been revered for its celestial beauty, valued for its use in priceless art, and sought after for its perceived spiritual powers. Its journey from the ancient mines of Afghanistan to the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs and the masterpieces of Renaissance painters is a testament to its enduring appeal.
For those born in September or December, or for individuals with a connection to the zodiac signs of Sagittarius, Libra, or Taurus, Lapis Lazuli offers a powerful and meaningful alternative to its official counterparts. Its deep blue, speckled with golden pyrite, is more than just a beautiful gem; it is a piece of the heavens, a symbol of wisdom, and a link to a rich tapestry of human history. Whether worn as a piece of jewelry, used in meditation, or simply admired for its natural beauty, Lapis Lazuli continues to be a stone of profound significance, captivating all who gaze upon it.