This is a natural lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone with an intense blue colour. Its shape is oval cabochon, its size is 13.70x9.50x5.40 mm, and its weight is 7.25 carats. The clarity is opaque, which means it does not let light through. It has not undergone any chemical or heat treatment, so it retains its natural properties. The stone's origin is from Afghanistan, a country known for its lapis lazuli deposits. Note: This stone has been handcrafted; it does not have a perfectly regular shape.
Lapis lazuli is a semi-precious stone with a rich history and distinctive beauty. Here is a detailed description of lapis lazuli:
1. **Composition and Colors:**
**Chemical composition:** Lapis lazuli is mainly made up of lazurite but may also contain other minerals such as calcite, pyrite and sodalite.
- **Colours:** The predominant colour of lapis lazuli is deep blue, but it can range from light to dark blue, including shades of purple or green. The presence of golden dots or bands of pyrite adds a distinctive element.
2. **Origin:**
Lapis lazuli has been mined since ancient times in places such as Afghanistan, Chile, Russia and the United States. Some of the best-known historical sources of lapis lazuli include the mines of Badakhshan, Afghanistan.
3. History and Use:
**In Antiquity:** Lapis lazuli has been used since ancient times for luxury items, jewelry and pigments in painting. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Sumerians, valued this stone for its vibrant colors and decorative properties.
- **Symbolism:** Lapis lazuli has often been associated with wisdom, communication and spirituality. In some cultures, this stone was believed to have healing and protective properties.
4. Texture and Appearance:
- **Texture:** The surface of lapis lazuli can be smooth or grainy, depending on how it is worked.
- Appearance:** Its lustre is glassy, and the presence of small crystals and other minerals in its composition can give it its distinctive appearance.
5. **Jewellery uses:**
Lapis lazuli is often worked and used in jewellery such as rings, earrings, bracelets and pendants.
Jewelry designs can highlight the beauty and natural colors of the stone, giving it an elegant and sophisticated look.
6. Painting and Art:
Lapis lazuli has historically been used as a pigment in painting. Famous Renaissance works of art, such as paintings by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, were created using lapis lazuli pigments.
7. Care and Cleaning:
Lapis lazuli is a fairly hard stone but can be sensitive to acids and chemicals. Gentle cleaning and the avoidance of excessive exposure to sunlight are recommended to prevent discoloration.
Lapis lazuli remains today a semi-precious stone prized for its natural beauty and rich historical heritage.