Lapis Lazuli The Stone of Royalty

Since ancient times Lapis Lazuli has been cherished and valued. Royalty alone was allowed to wear lapis thoughout the Mesopotamian  region and carnelian (the other Royalty stone). Lapis was more highly valued than gold. For a non-royal to be caught wearing either stone was dangerous to your life.

The two pieces I created above were inspired by an exhibit at the Detroit Institute of Arts from the Royal House Of Ur. My eldest and walked through the exhibit drooling. The Queens jewelry was all lapis lazuli and carnelian set in 22 karat gold. Per the exhibit her crown was so heavy that she had to wear a wig under it to support the weight. Simply Awesome.

Lapis is believed to be a stone of awareness. The Egyptians buried their dead with a lapis scarab. Ancient Buddhist believed the stone brought peace of mind to its wearer. Present day lapis is used to enhance mediation and increase physic ability. Make of that what you will.

I have a stone of lapis with no matrix, just beautiful blue. My supplier informed me that Americans like lapis with pyrite, but that Europeans like it with no pyrite. I will have to make some pieces with this beautiful stone get the pictures uploaded.

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