There are multifarious types of gemstones available for the mankind to explore and use them in jewelry, unfortunately out of it only a few make a true mark. Lapis lazuli can said to be one such gem, which has been available since ancient times and has made a mark. Lapis in reality is a Latin word which means ‘stone’ while lazuli is a Persian word came from Lazhuward, which means ‘blue’. Hence, Lapis lazuli was earlier called “stone of rulers” with a bright blue hue. The proof of the existence of Lapis lazuli beads can be had from the historical facts which disclose that this type of bead was discovered from graves in Egypt.
Due to the prevailing custom in Egypt, Lapis lazuli scarab was often placed with the dead on the graveyard. Egyptians had belief that this gemstone has the power to provide protection to the dead. This could be the reason why, Egyptian gave more preference to this gem rather than gold. Greeks on the other hand had mentioned about the use of Lapis lazuli in their ancient literature which was used along with sapphire and Gold.
According to historical revelation, the use of Lapis lazuli beads has also been in Bible. There are various instances in Bible where reference has been made about sapphire; the sapphire in fact was touted as the Lapis lazuli.
Lapis lazuli in certainty is a rock which is an amalgamation of calcite, pyrite, lazurite and other silicates. The blue color of this gem is due to the presence of lazurite. The cost of Lapis lazuli beads becomes higher when it contains more lazurite, which in return enhances the blue shade in it. Due to this fact, these beads are used in different variety of jewelry items except ring, because this gem is of delicate nature, which can be splintered easily. Moreover, lazurite is also being used separately as its powder has been in use in paints, cosmetics and pigments.
The gemstone’s highest quality pieces have been in use for quite some time, as after cutting them they are being used in beads, carvings and cabochons. If you intend to have beautiful and creative design made from Lapis lazuli beads it’s a good idea to use the Blue hue with lots of gold flecks of pyrites to come out with a beautiful final product in pendant or necklace. Let the blue hue of this bead may give you more such ideas to come out with fabulous designs in jewelry.
Lapis Lazuli Beads Faceted Pear Shape 7X7mm. These Very Fine Gem Quality Beads Are On A 8 Inch Strand. Some Strand May Have Larger Beads, Price Per Strand.
Teardrop Faceted Lapis Lazuli Beads 5X8mm. Beads Are On A 8 Inch Strand, Fine Gem Quality Beads Are Great For Individual Or Mixed With Other bight Colors . Some Strand May Have Larger Beads, Price Per Strand.