It's been mined for more than 6,000 years. It was set into Tutankhamun's funeral mask. And it was once ground up to paint some of the most famous artworks in the world.
Meet lapis lazuli: the deep, starry blue stone with one of the most incredible histories of any gem.
In this guide, we'll reveal where lapis comes from, why pharaohs and painters were obsessed with it, what those gold flecks really are, and how to tell if your lapis is the real deal.
And read to the end to discover the everyday word that comes from lapis lazuli.
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What is lapis lazuli?
Unlike most gemstones, lapis lazuli isn't a single mineral. It's actually a rock, made from a mix of minerals.
💙 Lazurite gives it that intense royal blue.
🤍 Calcite can show up as white streaks.
✨ Pyrite creates the glittering golden flecks that look like stars in a night sky.
That's why every piece of lapis looks a little different, and why so many people say it looks like a tiny piece of the universe.
Oxidised Filigree Lapis Lazuli Sterling Silver Pendant — £59
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6,000 years of blue
The most famous source of lapis lazuli is the Sar-i Sang mine in the Badakhshan region of Afghanistan, which has been worked for more than 6,000 years.
That's older than the pyramids.
🏺 Ancient Egypt: Lapis was a favourite stone for amulets and scarabs, and it was used in Tutankhamun's famous golden funeral mask.
💄 Legend says Cleopatra wore powdered lapis as eyeshadow.
🎨 The Renaissance: Lapis was ground into a pigment called ultramarine. Artists including Titian and Vermeer used it, often saving it for the robes of the Virgin Mary, because it was so precious.
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What does lapis lazuli mean?
For thousands of years, lapis has been linked with royalty, wisdom and the heavens.
In crystal traditions, lapis lazuli is often associated with:
• Wisdom
• Truth
• Self-awareness
• Intuition
• Communication
It's a popular choice for anyone starting something new, from a new job to a new chapter in life, and it makes a meaningful graduation gift.
Lapis Lazuli Sterling Silver Boho Chunky Ring | Size O — £49
Not your size? Our workshop can often resize rings. Send us a resize enquiry here.
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How to spot fake lapis lazuli
Because lapis is so popular, imitations are common. Dyed stones such as howlite or jasper, and other blue stones like sodalite, are sometimes sold as lapis.
Be cautious if you see:
- Colour that looks too even, flat or 'painted'
- Blue dye collecting in cracks
- Prices that seem far too good to be true
- Sellers who can't tell you anything about the stone
As always, buying from an experienced jeweller you trust is the safest option.
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How to care for lapis lazuli
Lapis is fairly soft, at around 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, so treat it gently.
- Take it off for the gym, cleaning and washing up
- Keep it away from perfume, chemicals and heat
- Wipe it with a soft, damp cloth rather than soaking it
- Store it away from harder stones that could scratch it
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Dreaming of something bigger?
If you've fallen for lapis lazuli but want something truly one-of-a-kind, our bespoke design service can create a lapis piece just for you, designed with our team and handmade in our on-site workshop.
Love blue gemstones? You might also enjoy our guide to sapphire engagement rings.
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Lapis lazuli FAQs
Where does lapis lazuli come from?
The most famous source is the Sar-i Sang mine in Badakhshan, Afghanistan, which has been mined for more than 6,000 years.
What are the gold flecks in lapis lazuli?
They're pyrite, a natural mineral sometimes nicknamed 'fool's gold'.
Can you wear lapis lazuli every day?
Yes, with care. Pendants and earrings are ideal for everyday wear, while rings should be removed for chores.
What does lapis lazuli symbolise?
Lapis has long been associated with wisdom, truth, royalty and intuition.
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What our customers say
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Helen Pickering
"Eloise never fails to exceed a customer's expectations; whether its the eclectic and exquisite range of stock, the relaxed and vibrant atmosphere or the knowledgeable and friendly staff - truly unique and always top of my list!"
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So, which everyday word comes from lapis lazuli?
Azure.
The name lapis lazuli traces back to the Persian word for the stone, which also gave us 'azure' in English and 'azul', the Spanish and Portuguese word for blue. Every time you describe a clear blue sky, you're borrowing from lapis.
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Final thoughts
Worn by pharaohs, painted by the old masters and treasured for thousands of years, lapis lazuli is a stone with a story. Wearing it means wearing a little piece of history.
Our lapis pieces are one-offs, so if one speaks to you, it may be a sign.
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Visit or contact Eloise Jewellery
📍 Eloise Jewellery
156 High Street
Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland, KY1 1NQ
✉️ eloisejewellery@hotmail.co.uk
🕒 Monday–Saturday: 9:30am–5:30pm
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Please note: the spiritual properties described in this article come from crystal traditions. They are not scientifically proven and are not a substitute for medical advice.