Lapis Lazuli has long been prized for its beautiful blue coloring, often with a hint of violet. Veins of pyrite running through it are also highly desired. The Ancient Egyptians valued Lapis Lazuli as a means of opening psychic pathways to their gods, and also used it for seals, in cosmetics, and carved it into vases, sculptures, and altar ornaments. For a time, only high priests and royalty were allowed to possess Lapis Lazuli. It was the stone used to inscribe certain portions of the Egyptian Book of the Dead. Lapis Lazuli was also one of the stones in the biblical "Breastplate of Aaron."
Today, Lapis Lazuli is mined in several places in the world, including the same ancient deposits in Afghanistan where it has been mined for the past 6000 years.
Lapis Lazuli is said to enchance one's awareness, insight and intellect. It assists with wisdom, peacefulness and self esteem. Lapis Lazuli has been used since ancient times as a treatment for depression, and an immune system booster.
Enchanted Works uses Lapis Lazuli in some of our hand beaded necklaces, including our very popular Priestess Necklace.
