About LAPIS LAZULI

Lapis Lazuli is more than 6500 years old making it one of the oldest opaque gemstones in history. Resembling a night sky of stars it is deep blue with tiny flecks of Mica.   Lapis means stone and Lazuli comes from the Persian word Lazhuward, which means blue.

Lapis Lazuli has been used in fine art through many ages. Ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, Chinese, Greeks, Minoans and Romans loved it.  Cleopatra would ground lapis Lazuli and use it as eyeshadow. Mary of Nazareth's robes in the Sistine Chapel are ground up lapis Lazuli turned into paint.

Lapis Lazuli contains many minerals including Lazurite, diopside, calcite, pyrite, mica, and more.

Chemical Composition: Na8(Al6Si6O24)S2
Color Deep blue
Hardness 5 to 6 (Mohs)
Locations Found: USA, Canada, Chile, Argentina, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.

About Amethyst

Amethyst was used in jewelry in Ancient Egypt. The greek phrase "a-methystos", meaning not drunk was given to this crystal because wine during this time was the color purple. Today it is still one of the most popular gemstones around.  Banded amethyst exhibits eye-catching patterns of opaque an translucent layers giving it a textured appearance with varying degrees of white banding with brown striations.

Chemical Composition: SiO2 Silicon Dioxide
Mineral Class: Silicates, Tectosilicates
Hardness: 7
Color: Lavender to Dark Purple
Locations Found: Africa, Bolivia, Brazil, China, India, Madagascar, Mexico, Tanzania, Uruguay

Care of Labradorite Lapis Lazuli &  Amethyst

Avoid leaving Amethyst and Lapis Lazuli in harsh direct sunlight as it can fade the gemstone.  It is best to store in a dark place when not wearing.  Do not use abrasive cleaners or soak in water as Lapis Lazuli is a porous stone.  Clean using a soft cloth and soapy water rinsing well and polishing after to remove any soap residue. As with most gemstones, ultrasonic cleaners and steamers are not recommended. Store in a soft case away from hard objects to avoid being scratched.