At Prins & Prins, we believe that jewellery should tell a story—one that transcends time, culture, and craftsmanship. Few gemstones embody that ideal more profoundly than lapis lazuli, the deep blue stone flecked with gold that has captivated rulers, artists, and spiritual seekers for millennia. From the ancient treasures of Egyptian pharaohs to the masterpieces of Renaissance painters, lapis lazuli remains a timeless emblem of elegance, wisdom, and inner power.
What Is Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis lazuli is not a single mineral but a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, along with calcite, pyrite, and other minerals. It is best known for its rich ultramarine blue colour, often accented by glimmering golden pyrite inclusions and subtle white calcite veins. The finest specimens boast a uniform deep blue tone with minimal calcite and evenly distributed pyrite.
Unlike many transparent gems, lapis lazuli is opaque, offering a velvet-like surface and an old-world charm that makes it ideal for bold statement pieces and historic-inspired jewellery.
A Gem with Ancient Origins
Lapis lazuli has been revered for over 6,500 years. The oldest known source is the Sar-e-Sang mines in Afghanistan, which have produced fine lapis since around 7000 BCE. This region remains the most celebrated origin for high-quality lapis today.
In Ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was used to create jewellery, scarabs, and burial masks. Cleopatra was said to have ground it into powder for eye shadow, and the gemstone adorned the mask of King Tutankhamun. It was considered a stone of the heavens—symbolising truth, royalty, and divine power.
In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, lapis was ground into a pigment known as ultramarine, the most expensive blue used by painters such as Michelangelo and Vermeer. It became a symbol of wealth, sanctity, and artistic expression.
Sources and Grading
Today, the primary sources of lapis lazuli include:
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Afghanistan (Sar-e-Sang): Deep royal blue with fine pyrite—highest quality.
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Chile: Typically lighter blue with more calcite.
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Russia (Baikal region): Deep blue, though less commonly used in jewellery.
When evaluating lapis lazuli, gem experts look for:
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Colour: Intense royal or ultramarine blue is most prized.
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Purity: Fewer calcite streaks = higher value.
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Inclusions: Delicate gold specks of pyrite add beauty and authenticity.
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Treatments: Some lapis is dyed or waxed to enhance colour—natural stones are more valuable.
A Stone of Meaning and Spiritual Power
Lapis lazuli has long been considered a stone of wisdom, truth, and spiritual awakening. Ancient cultures believed it could help connect the wearer to divine insight and inner clarity. It has also been used for protection, mental clarity, and deepening meditative practices.
Today, it is often associated with the third-eye chakra, promoting intuition and inner vision. Whether you embrace its metaphysical qualities or simply admire its royal hue, lapis lazuli carries a sense of grounded elegance and mystique.
Lapis Lazuli in Fine Jewellery
Lapis lends itself beautifully to both modern and vintage-inspired jewellery designs. Its bold, saturated colour contrasts elegantly with warm metals and soft gemstones.
At Prins & Prins, we love incorporating lapis lazuli in:
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Statement rings with vintage filigree detailing
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Pendants and medallions paired with yellow gold or pearls
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Earrings framed in diamond halos for dramatic evening wear
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Cufflinks and signet rings for a distinguished masculine edge
Because of its relatively soft nature (Mohs hardness 5–6), lapis is best suited for jewellery worn with care—particularly pendants, earrings, and dress rings.
How to Care for Lapis Lazuli
To keep your lapis jewellery radiant and long-lasting:
✅ Do:
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Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth
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Store away from harder gemstones to avoid scratching
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Remove before bathing, swimming, or applying perfumes and lotions
❌ Don’t:
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Use ultrasonic or steam cleaners
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Expose it to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures
Natural lapis is porous and sensitive, so proper care is essential to preserve its colour and polish.
Why Choose Lapis Lazuli?
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Rich in history: Worn by royalty, artists, and philosophers across cultures
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Visually striking: A gemstone with regal blue tones and golden sparkles
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Emotionally meaningful: Symbol of truth, protection, and creativity
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Versatile luxury: Ideal for custom designs, antique-inspired pieces, or spiritual jewellery
Whether you’re looking to honour ancient craftsmanship or make a bold statement in a modern setting, lapis lazuli offers a story and style that transcends time.
Explore Lapis at Prins & Prins
At Prins & Prins, we offer hand-selected lapis lazuli gemstones sourced for their depth of colour and character. Our master jewellers and designers are ready to create custom pieces that highlight this gem’s noble beauty—whether set in heirloom gold, adorned with diamonds, or simply celebrated on its own.
Visit our Cape Town showroom or book a consultation to discover lapis lazuli’s rare blend of history, elegance, and expressive power.
Sources:
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Gemological Institute of America (GIA): Lapis Lazuli
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International Gem Society: Lapis Lazuli Gem Info
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Smithsonian Institution – National Museum of Natural History
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British Museum Collections – Ancient Egyptian Lapidary Work
