Lapis

Lapis lazuli (/ˈlæpɪs ˈlæzjʊli, -laɪ/), or lapis for short, is a deep blue metamorphic rock used as a semi-precious stone that has been prized since antiquity for its intense color. As early as the 7th millennium BCE, lapis lazuli was mined in the Sar-i Sang mines, in Shortugai, and in other mines in Badakhshan province in northeast Afghanistan.

Lapis was highly valued by the Indus Valley Civilisation (3300–1900 BC). Lapis beads have been found at Neolithic burials in Mehrgarh, the Caucasus, and even as far from Afghanistan as Mauritania It was used in the funeral mask of Tutankhamun (1341–1323 BCE). At the end of the Middle Ages, lapis lazuli began to be exported to Europe, where it was ground into powder and made into ultramarine, the finest and most expensive of all blue pigments. It was used by some of the most important artists of the Renaissance and Baroque, including Masaccio, Perugino, Titian and Vermeer, and was often reserved for the clothing of the central figures of their paintings, especially the Virgin Mary.

Today, mines in northeast Afghanistan are still the major source of lapis lazuli. Important amounts are also produced from mines west of Lake Baikal in Russia, and in the Andes mountains in Chile. Smaller quantities are mined in Italy, Mongolia, the United States, and Canada.

Crystal Healing:

When you connect with the high frequencies of the Lapis Lazuli crystal, it helps support spiritual enlightenment by allowing you to go deeper within the self. Awaken your true destiny and divine purpose when you harness the energy of the Lapis Lazuli crystal stone, also known as "The Wisdom Keeper.” That's a big job for a crystal, but the subtle yet powerful energy of the Lapis Lazuli crystal is surprisingly effective at shining a light on the soul and its intuitive abilities and inner knowing.