Origins & Geology
Found in: Afghanistan (Badakhshan), Chile, Russia, USA
Lapis lazuli is a rock rather than a single mineral, composed primarily of lazurite (which gives the deep blue color), calcite, and pyrite (the golden flecks). The finest lapis has been mined in Afghanistan's Sar-e-Sang deposit for over 6,000 years — the same mines that supplied ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Ground lapis was the source of the ultramarine pigment used in Renaissance paintings.
Lapis Lazuli Meaning & Healing Properties
One of the oldest spiritual stones in recorded history, lapis lazuli was sacred to ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, and Persians. It was ground into eyeshadow by pharaohs and adorned Tutankhamun's burial mask. It activates the third eye, enhances inner vision, and encourages honesty and self-expression. It is said to reveal hidden truths.
How to Use Lapis Lazuli
- Enhancing inner wisdom and truth
- Communication and honest expression
- Third eye activation
- Connecting with ancient wisdom
- Stimulating intellectual ability
Lapis Lazuli Facts
- The same Afghan mines have been producing lapis for over 6,000 years
- Ground lapis lazuli was used as the ultramarine pigment in Renaissance paintings by Vermeer and Michelangelo
- Tutankhamun's death mask is inlaid with lapis lazuli
- The golden specks are pyrite — fool's gold