Lapis Lazuli is a stone that has enchanted people since antiquity
What is Lapis Lazuli?
Also known simply as 2Lapis,2 this stone has been used by people throughout time for countless purposes beyond adornment. From a precious gemstone inlaid into jewellery designed to be worn, to a core material for sculptures and even a pigment for paint.
This stone most often comes from Afghanistan, which in fact holds the largest Lapis Lazuli deposits. Significant deposits of this stone are also found in Chile, Canada, Arizona, and Argentina.
How to style Lapis Lazuli?
Thanks to the deep, captivating blue of this gem, it cant be limited to a single season or a single occasion. Although its colour may seem like a bold choice, with a little creativity an outfit can come to life with the right jewellery.
Whether the stone is set in gold or silver, its hue complements both warm and cool tones. As a result, it will look wonderful in contrast with the wearers complexion.
Fun facts
Although today it is most often found in jewellery, its no secret that in the past it had many other, less common uses. For instance, Cleopatra herself used Lapis Lazuli as her favourite eyeshadow. Once finely ground, the stone becomes a superb natural pigment that does not lose its intensity.
This quality of Lapis Lazuli even revolutionised painting and the art of murals. The pigment made from this stone is called ultramarine. The name is well deserved thanks to its impressive colour. And because the stone is relatively rare, this pigment has also proven to be exceptionally costly.
