LAPIS LAZULI is a captivating gemstone renowned for its mesmerizing deep blue color and rich historical background. It has been treasured and sought after for thousands of years due to its striking beauty and cultural significance. Lapis Lazuli holds a unique place in the world of gemstones and continues to captivate people with its timeless allure.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
MINERAL : LAPIS LAZULI (Metamorphic Rock) HARDNESS (Mohs Scale) : 5.5 to 6.0 MEASUREMENTS Approx : 67.3 x 34.5 MM WIEGHT : 164 gram ORIGIN : SAR-E-SANG, BADAKHSHAN PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN
LAPIS LAZULI gets its name from the Latin word “lapis,” meaning stone, and the Arabic word “azul,” meaning blue. Its vibrant blue hue, often streaked with golden pyrite inclusions, is reminiscent of the vast expanse of the sky or the depths of the ocean. This gemstone is primarily composed of the mineral lazurite, along with other minerals such as calcite, pyrite, and sodalite, which contribute to its distinct characteristics.
The history of LAPIS LAZULI can be traced back to ancient times. It was highly valued in various civilizations, including those of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Indus Valley. In ancient Egypt, Lapis Lazuli was associated with the heavens and was used to adorn the burial masks of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. It was also used in the creation of jewelry, amulets, and ceremonial objects.
LAPIS LAZULI played a significant role in the art and culture of Renaissance Europe. It was favored by renowned artists such as Michelangelo and Vermeer, who used ground Lapis Lazuli pigment to create the vivid blue hues in their paintings. The stone was also used in decorative objects, furniture inlays, and ornamental designs during the Baroque period.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lapis Lazuli carries symbolic and spiritual significance in various cultures. It has been associated with qualities such as wisdom, truth, and inner peace. In ancient civilizations, it was believed to possess mystical properties and was often used in rituals and ceremonies. Lapis Lazuli was also associated with the throat chakra, representing self-expression and communication.
Today, Lapis Lazuli continues to be cherished and admired for its beauty and historical legacy. It remains a popular gemstone used in jewelry, both in its natural form and as polished cabochons. It is also incorporated into sculptures, decorative objects, and contemporary designs, reflecting its timeless appeal and versatility.
In summary, Lapis Lazuli is a remarkable gemstone that has fascinated people throughout history. Its deep blue color, intertwined with golden flecks of pyrite, creates a captivating visual experience. With its rich cultural heritage and profound symbolism, Lapis Lazuli remains an enchanting gemstone that continues to inspire and captivate individuals around the world.
{GEOLOGY AND FORMATION OF LAPIS LAZULI}
LAPIS LAZULI is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, along with other minerals such as calcite, pyrite, and sodalite. It forms through a combination of geological processes over millions of years. Understanding the geology and formation of Lapis Lazuli provides insights into its unique properties and characteristics.
GEOLOGICAL COMPOSITION:
LAZURITE : Lazurite is the dominant mineral in Lapis Lazuli, typically comprising 25% to 40% of its composition. It is responsible for the gemstone’s vivid blue color. CALCITE: Calcite is a common mineral found in Lapis Lazuli, occurring as white veins or patches. It provides contrast to the blue color and can affect the gemstone’s transparency. PYRITE: Pyrite occurs as golden-colored metallic flecks within Lapis Lazuli. It adds a distinctive sparkle and contributes to the gemstone’s unique aesthetic. SODALITE: Sodalite is another mineral that can be present in Lapis Lazuli, usually occurring as light blue patches. It can enhance the gemstone’s overall coloration.
FORMATION PROCESS:
LAPIS LAZULI forms through the metamorphism of limestone and marble. Metamorphism refers to the alteration of pre-existing rocks due to changes in temperature, pressure, and chemical reactions. The process begins with the deposition of sediments rich in calcite and pyrite. Over time, these sediments become compacted and transformed into limestone or marble through lithification. Subsequent tectonic forces, such as the collision of tectonic plates or the uplifting of mountain ranges, subject the limestone or marble to intense heat and pressure. The combination of high temperature and pressure triggers a metamorphic process known as contact metamorphism, which leads to the formation of Lapis Lazuli. The heat causes the calcite to recrystallize into lazurite, giving the gemstone its characteristic blue color. Pyrite and sodalite can also form during this process.
OCCURRENCE AND MINING LOCATIONS:
LAPIS LAZULI deposits are found in various parts of the world, although some locations are particularly renowned for their high-quality specimens. AFGHANISTAN: The Sar-e-Sang mines in Afghanistan have been a significant source of Lapis Lazuli for centuries. The region is known for producing intense blue stones with golden pyrite inclusions. RUSSIA: The Lake Baikal region in Russia is another notable source of Lapis Lazuli. The stones from this region often display a more uniform blue coloration. CHILE: Lapis Lazuli is also found in the Ovalle region of Chile, where it occurs in association with copper deposits. OTHER LOCATION: Additional deposits of Lapis Lazuli can be found in countries such as Myanmar, Pakistan, Argentina, and the United States (Colorado and California).
In conclusion, Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of lazurite, along with other minerals such as calcite, pyrite, and sodalite. It forms through the metamorphism of limestone and marble, with heat and pressure transforming the minerals and creating the gemstone’s distinctive blue color and characteristic inclusions. Lapis Lazuli is found in various locations around the world, with Afghanistan being the most renowned source.
{CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF LAPIS LAZULI}
LAPIS LAZULI is primarily composed of several minerals, each with its own chemical composition. The main mineral responsible for the gemstone’s blue color is lazurite, while other minerals such as calcite, pyrite, and sodalite are commonly present. Here are the chemical properties of these key minerals found in Lapis Lazuli:
LAZURITE: Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(S,SO4,Cl)2 Lazurite is a complex mineral belonging to the sodalite group. It is an aluminosilicate mineral with sodium and calcium as major cations. Lazurite contains sulfur and may also contain small amounts of chlorine in its structure, contributing to the gemstone’s blue color.
CALCITE: Chemical Formula: CaCO3 Calcite is a calcium carbonate mineral. It is colorless or white and often occurs as veins or patches within Lapis Lazuli. The presence of calcite in Lapis Lazuli can affect its transparency and overall appearance, providing contrast to the blue lazurite.
PYRITE: Chemical Formula: FeS2 Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral. It occurs as golden-colored metallic flecks within Lapis Lazuli. Pyrite adds a distinctive sparkle and luster to the gemstone, enhancing its visual appeal.
SODALITE: Chemical Formula: Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 Sodalite is a sodium aluminum silicate chloride mineral. It is a member of the feldspathoid group. Sodalite can occur as light blue patches within Lapis Lazuli, contributing to its color variation and patterns.
It’s worth noting that Lapis Lazuli can contain trace amounts of other minerals and impurities, which may vary depending on the specific geological formation and location of the gemstone.
When assessing the chemical properties of Lapis Lazuli, it is important to note that the gemstone is relatively stable and resistant to most common chemicals. However, it can be affected by prolonged exposure to acidic substances or strong cleaning agents. Care should be taken to protect Lapis Lazuli from contact with harsh chemicals to preserve its beauty and integrity.
Overall, the chemical properties of Lapis Lazuli, determined by the composition of its constituent minerals, play a significant role in shaping its appearance, color, and overall characteristics.
{USES AND APPLICATIONS OF LAPIS LAZULI}
LAPIS LAZULI has been valued and utilized for various purposes throughout history. Its captivating beauty and cultural significance have made it a sought-after gemstone. Here are some of the key uses and applications of Lapis Lazuli:
JEWELRY: Lapis Lazuli has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. It is carved into beads, cabochons, and inlays for use in necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, and pendants. The deep blue color of Lapis Lazuli, often accentuated by golden pyrite inclusions, makes it a popular choice for creating eye-catching and unique pieces of jewelry.
ART AND SCULPTURE: Lapis Lazuli has a long history of use in art and sculpture. It has been ground into a pigment known as ultramarine, which was highly prized by Renaissance and Baroque painters. Artists such as Michelangelo and Vermeer used ultramarine pigment derived from Lapis Lazuli to create vivid blue hues in their paintings. Lapis Lazuli has also been used in sculpture and decorative objects, adding a touch of elegance and richness to artistic creations.
ORNAMENTAL OBJECTS: Lapis Lazuli is often incorporated into ornamental objects and decorative items. It has been used to adorn furniture, boxes, vases, and other decorative pieces. Lapis Lazuli’s vibrant blue color and golden pyrite inclusions add a luxurious and regal touch to these objects, making them visually appealing and valuable.
SPIRITUAL AND METAPHYSICAL USES: Lapis Lazuli holds spiritual and metaphysical significance in various cultures. It is believed to possess healing properties and is associated with qualities such as wisdom, truth, inner peace, and intuition. Lapis Lazuli is often used in meditation practices and as a symbol of spiritual growth and self-expression. It is also associated with the throat chakra, representing communication and self-expression.
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL ARTIFACTS: Lapis Lazuli has been used in the creation of historical and cultural artifacts. In ancient civilizations, it was used to make amulets, talismans, and ceremonial objects. Lapis Lazuli was favored by pharaohs in ancient Egypt and was used to adorn their burial masks and sarcophagi. It has also been found in ancient Mesopotamian and Indus Valley artifacts, illustrating its widespread cultural significance throughout history.
COLLECTIBLES AND INVESTMENTS: High-quality Lapis Lazuli specimens, especially those with intense blue color and minimal impurities, are highly sought after by collectors and investors. Lapis Lazuli with exceptional color and clarity can appreciate in value over time, making it a desirable gemstone for investment purposes.
It’s important to note that while Lapis Lazuli is durable enough for use in jewelry and decorative objects, it should be protected from rough handling, harsh chemicals, and sudden temperature changes to preserve its beauty and integrity.
In summary, Lapis Lazuli finds wide-ranging uses and applications, from jewelry and art to spiritual practices and historical artifacts. Its vibrant blue color, golden pyrite inclusions, and cultural significance continue to make it a treasured and valuable gemstone.
GEOLOGY AND FORMATION: Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of the mineral lazurite, along with other minerals like calcite, pyrite, and sodalite. It is formed through the metamorphism of limestone and contact metamorphism caused by intrusions of granite or pegmatite.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES: Lapis Lazuli has a deep blue color, often with golden pyrite inclusions. It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6, making it suitable for use in jewelry. The stone has a vitreous to greasy luster and a translucent to opaque transparency.
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES: Lapis Lazuli is mainly composed of lazurite (25% to 40%), along with calcite, pyrite, and other minerals. The blue color is attributed to the presence of the sulfur-containing mineral lazurite.
OPTICAL PROPERTIES: Lapis Lazuli exhibits a characteristic deep blue color, which can vary in intensity. It has a refractive index ranging from 1.50 to 1.67 and a specific gravity of 2.7 to 2.9. The presence of pyrite inclusions gives it a distinctive golden sparkle.
USES AND APPLICATIONS: Lapis Lazuli has been used in jewelry for thousands of years, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. It has been utilized in art and sculpture, both as a raw material and as a pigment (ultramarine) for creating blue hues in paintings. Lapis Lazuli is incorporated into decorative objects, furniture, and ornamental items, adding a touch of luxury and elegance. It holds spiritual and metaphysical significance, associated with qualities such as wisdom, truth, and self-expression. Lapis Lazuli has been found in historical and cultural artifacts, symbolizing status, divinity, and cultural identity.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Lapis Lazuli has a long and significant history, revered by ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Indus Valley Civilization. It has been associated with royalty, gods, and the heavens, used in art, jewelry, and ceremonial objects. Lapis Lazuli’s use as a pigment in Renaissance and Baroque paintings, including works by famous artists, further demonstrates its historical significance.
LAPIS LAZULI IN MODERN CULTURE: Lapis Lazuli continues to be appreciated in modern culture for its beauty, symbolism, and versatility. It is used in jewelry design, fashion, interior design, and as a tool in healing and spiritual practices. Lapis Lazuli appears in popular culture, including films, literature, and media, further enhancing its cultural significance. The gemstone holds value in the gem market, with factors such as color, quality, and rarity influencing its demand and pricing.
Overall, Lapis Lazuli’s allure spans across various domains, from its geological formation to its impact on art, culture, and the gem market. Its captivating blue color and historical significance continue to make it a treasured gemstone in modern times.
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ABOUT US: Welcome to ZOG Gems ZOG Gems was inaugurated in the year 2019 and since then the company is marching on the heights of success. Our company is up-to-dated with the current market trends of Gemstones and Minerals and has expanded their work to whole sale as well as confined customers. ZOG Gems wants to make a mark in the whole sale and retail markets.Our company takes due care of you so that you are not deprived of the access to beautiful and high quality coloured stones and minerals that are exclusive to Afghanistan and Pakistan. ZOG Gems provides them to you at a very reasonable price. The world is aware of the rarity of the Gems and Minerals that are mined in Afghanistan and Pakistan.We select the best quality from these rare natural resources. ZOG Gems welcomes specific demands from you and aims to provide you with your desirable items in best quality.
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