Lapis, September's birthstone, has long enchanted the world with its deep blue hues and shimmering flecks. From the temples of ancient Egypt to the sacred stories of Native American lands, it holds spiritual significance and a special place in the heart of many. Let’s celebrate it by learning more about it!
The Marvel of Lapis
Jewelry collectors may sometimes see Lapis identified by its full name ~ Lapis Lazuli. The name is quite descriptive, as it is a combination of the Latin word lapis (“stone”) and the Persian word lazhuward (“blue”). The blue color comes from lazurite, one of the three minerals primarily present in Lapis. A higher concentration of lazurite means a more intensely saturated blue appearance. The midnight sky hue isn’t the only characteristic that gemstone enthusiasts love about Lapis though. Many also cherish the gemstone because of the natural specks that give it a glittery effect, especially when sunlight dances across the surface. These specks come from inclusions of pyrite (brassy-yellow or golden coloration) and calcite (white or silvery coloration).
Sterling Silver Lapis Oval Cut Beaded Toggle Bracelet, Sizes Small to Large
Most top-quality Lapis jewelry, such as the pieces from American West Jewelry, contain either some amount of pyrite or present just a solid blue. The exception to this is Denim Lapis, which contains higher concentrations of calcite mixed into the lazurite, giving the stone a powdery, denim blue hue. In earlier times, Denim Lapis was deemed undesirable. However, the influence of Western fashion, which champions denim looks and statement color accents, has made Denim Lapis a lasting trend.
The Significance of Lapis
The oldest known source of Lapis comes from the mountains within the province of Badakshan, located in modern-day Afghanistan. This area has been mined for Lapis since approximately 700 BC and continues to operate today. Other locations where Lapis can be found include Chile and Canada. The US state of Colorado used to be a source as well, until the 1990’s, when the Blue Wrinkle Mine ceased operations.
The early use of Lapis in ancient civilizations was primarily reserved for royalty, often embellishing their clothing, accessories, and even caskets. Eventually, the use of Lapis expanded to create paint for important canvasses, craft intricate mosaic artwork for churches, and wear it as amulets because it was believed to represent healing, wisdom, and a spiritual connection to the world. When Lapis reached Northern America, the symbolism continued to live on as Native artists creatively incorporated Lapis into talismans and jewelry that was worn, traded, and cherished. An iconic design that was often adorned by Lapis embellishments was the Squash Blossom Naja, which was first created by the Navajo tribe. Fun fact ~ the Squash Blossom Naja Necklace design was officially adopted as the state of New Mexico’s Official Necklace in 2011!
Sterling Silver Lapis Pear-Cut Squash Blossom Necklace, 17 to 20 Inches
Why We Love Lapis
What’s not to love about Lapis? It’s elegant, iconic in Southwestern jewelry, and it celebrates all those who are born in the month of September. When Lapis is worn on its own, its saturated color stands out and draws admirers in. For Lapis accessories crafted with Sterling Silver details, there is a mesmerizing contrast that brings out the best features in both materials ~ almost like a silver lining around a piece of the night sky that’s captured in a stone.
Sterling Silver Lapis Cluster Gemstone Oval Pendant Enhancer
Lapis also compliments other gemstones well because it anchors brighter colors, which makes gemstones like Orange Spiny Oyster dance like a campfire flame and Turquoise glow like a moonlight river. If you’re curious about how to layer your jewelry and combine different gemstones into the same look, read our other blog for styling tips on stacking jewelry!
Sterling Silver Orange Spiny Oyster, Turquoise and Lapis Teardrop Post Back Earrings