Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli
Brought to the Americas by the Spanish and with a long and fascinating history throught the the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Lapis lazuli has been stealing hearts ever since it was first mined in the Badakhshan province of Afghanistan, where it has been found in ancient burial sites dating back to 3000 BC. The ancient Egyptians were also fond of lapis lazuli, using it in jewelry, statues, and even as an ingredient in cosmetics as they believed that lapis lazuli had magical properties and could protect them from evil. Ancient Mesopotamia was also fond of the gem, where it was used to create cylinder seals, small engraved cylinders used to stamp impressions in clay. These seals were used for identification, trade, and other purposes.
Ancient Mesopotamia was also fond of the gem, where it was used to create cylinder seals, small engraved cylinders used to stamp impressions in clay. These seals were used for identification, trade, and other purposes. During the Middle Ages, lapis lazuli became even more popular in Europe. It was used in religious art, particularly in paintings of the Virgin Mary, where the blue color was meant to represent her purity and divine nature. Lapis lazuli was also used in illuminated manuscripts, where it was ground into a powder and used to create blue pigments for ink.
During the Middle Ages, lapis lazuli became even more popular in Europe. It was used in religious art, particularly in paintings of the Virgin Mary, where the blue color was meant to represent her purity and divine nature. Lapis lazuli was also used in illuminated manuscripts, where it was ground into a powder and used to create blue pigments for ink.
In the Renaissance, lapis lazuli continued to be prized for its color and rarity. It was used in jewelry, particularly by the Medici family in Florence, Italy. The Medici family was famous for their patronage of the arts, and they commissioned many pieces of lapis lazuli jewelry from their court jewelers.
How to Care for Lapis Lazuli
Because lapis lazuli is porous and relatively soft, it requires special care to keep it looking its best. Here are a few tips for caring for lapis lazuli:
- Store lapis lazuli jewelry separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and damage.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives.
- Clean lapis lazuli jewelry with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.
- Have lapis lazuli jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected periodically to ensure that it's in good condition.
Impressed by the gemstone’s beauty, the Spanish began using it to create jewelry and other decorative objects. Lapis Lazuli became particularly popular in Mexico, where it was used to create intricate mosaic patterns on churches and other buildings.
Lapis Lazuli in the Americas is a fascinating one. The gemstone has been highly valued by indigenous communities for thousands of years, and its use has continued to evolve and adapt over time. Today, Lapis Lazuli remains a treasured gemstone that is highly prized for its beauty and cultural significance.
In conclusion, lapis lazuli is a beautiful and fascinating gemstone with a rich history and many uses. Whether you're interested in using it for jewelry-making, art, or alternative medicine, lapis lazuli is a gemstone that's sure to captivate and inspire. With proper care and attention, lapis lazuli can be enjoyed for generations to come.