Hand Trades

Royal blue lapis lazuli characteristically has either whitish or yellowish matrix or feathering. When it is flecked with white, it is perfectly complemented by silver and turquoise for a southwestern look. If it has brassy specks, it is regal with gold. Lapis also has darker regions that can be accented when strung with black onyx or antiqued silver beads. For a harmonious combination, mix lapis with faceted purple amethyst, and for a dazzling look, use it in a design with coral or fire-orange carnelian.

Since the earliest of times, lapis lazuli has been associated with strength and courage. The Sumerians believed that the spirit of their gods lived within the stone. That theme was adopted by the ancient Egyptians, who drew a connection between the speckling of the stone and the glittering stars in the night sky. One of the most famous uses of the stone is in the mask of King Tutankhamen, where it is inlaid with turquoise and carnelian in bright gold. It was used by European artists during the Middle Ages, ground as pigment for producing the color aquamarine.

Lapis lazuli is found with limestone or as separate boulders. It was well-known to the ancient world because it was first found in Afghanistan. Stones from that region are still considered to be of the best quality. Argentina also produces a premium deep blue variety. Lapis lazuli is found in the USA and Canada and less intense blue examples are found in Chile and in the former USSR.

Filed under: Gemstones, Insights