Lapis silver sunburst hand made in India from solid silver

Here at Indigo Ocean we have a stunning selection of  fair trade jewellery hand crafted in India, from earrings to pendants.

My first and foremost favourite gemstone is Lapis Lazuli because it has such a rich and very striking blue colour (I am a water sign so water colours make me happy though its the depth of colour I love in lapis).

Lapis Lazuli pendant with solid silver mount and finding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interestingly, the name lapis lazuli is derived from both Latin where lapis means ‘stone’ and Arabic where azul  means ‘blue.

The composite qualities of this distinctive blue stone are made from sodium calcium aluminium sulfate silicate which is characterised with beautiful flecks of gold or white. These flecks are naturally created by pyrite or calcite inclusions.

Lapis and Turquoise silver earrings handmade in India

Historically Lapis lazuli was been said to protect against the spirits of darkness as its colour was thought to symbolise the heavens. Because of this belief it was used widely in necklaces, bracelets and rings to protect the wearer from evil. Furthermore, the Ancient Egyptians used lapis lazuli in their amulets as they too believed it had very powerful protective forces.

 Building upon the foundations of these ancient beliefs and uses, lapis lazuli has also been associated with other kinds of positive effects when these gemstones are worn either as an item of jewellery or if the stone is in personal possession.

 For example, lapis is believed to enhance spiritual awakening and mental clarity. It is also believed to protect against depression,  aid self-expression including artistic flair and is also thought to encourage a broader way of thinking.

Lapis and silver teardrop, handmade in India

Lapis Lazuli really is a beautiful gemstone and with its stunning depth of colour it looks fantastic with silver findings either as a pendant or in earrings.

 I would be really interested to hear from anyone who can build on the information I have given here so that people who love this stone can read some more about it….

Belinda