Few gemstones carry the weight of history that lapis lazuli does. Prized for over 6,000 years, this deep blue stone has adorned pharaohs, Renaissance paintings, and the finest jewellery collections in the world. Today, it remains one of the most striking choices in fine jewellery — and a popular choice.
What Is Lapis Lazuli?
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock rather than a single mineral. Its characteristic deep blue colour comes primarily from lazurite, while the golden flecks you often see are pyrite — fool's gold — and the white veining is calcite. The finest lapis comes from the Sar-e-Sang mines in Afghanistan, a source that has been active since at least 4000 BC.
The name itself is a blend of Latin and Arabic: lapis meaning stone, and lazuli from the Arabic lāzaward, meaning heaven or sky. It's a name that suits it perfectly.
A Stone With 6,000 Years of History
Lapis lazuli was among the most coveted materials in the ancient world. Egyptian pharaohs used it in jewellery, amulets, and burial masks — most famously in Tutankhamun's death mask. Cleopatra reportedly ground it into powder for eye shadow.
In the Renaissance, lapis was ground into ultramarine pigment, the most expensive blue paint available, used by Vermeer and Michelangelo. The stone was considered more valuable than gold.
Its association with royalty, wisdom, and the divine has never entirely faded — which is part of what makes lapis lazuli jewellery feel so inherently luxurious.
The Meaning of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has long been associated with truth, wisdom, and inner power. In many traditions it is considered a stone of communication and clarity — thought to encourage honest expression and self-awareness. Whether or not you subscribe to crystal meanings, there's something undeniably intentional about wearing a stone with this depth of history.
It is also the traditional birthstone for December, making it a meaningful gift for anyone born in that month.
How to Style Lapis Lazuli Jewellery
The deep navy-to-cobalt blue of lapis lazuli is one of the most versatile tones in fine jewellery. Here's how to wear it well:
As a statement pendant
I love working with discs of lapis as I think the simplicity of the cut lets the colour of the stone speak for itself. For something with added brilliance, the Stellar Two Stone Blue Lapis Lazuli and Diamond Necklace pairs the stone with a diamond.
As earrings
Like the necklace version, the Stellar Two Stone Blue Lapis Lazuli and Gold Diamond Studs add a diamond accent for occasions that call for something more.
As a ring
Lapis in a ring is a bold, confident choice. The Stellar Blue and Gold Ring is a statement piece that pairs beautifully with plain gold bands, while the Stellar Blue Lapis Lazuli Small Stacking Ring is designed to be worn alongside other rings for a layered, curated look and I love these rings with a combination of stone and colour choices.
Colour pairings
Lapis lazuli's deep blue works beautifully with warm gold (its natural companion), ivory and cream tones, camel and tan, and rich burgundy or rust. It holds its own against bold colours and elevates neutral outfits effortlessly.
Caring for Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a relatively soft stone (5–6 on the Mohs scale), so it requires a little more care than harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires:
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners — the vibration can damage the stone
- Keep away from harsh chemicals, including perfume, hairspray, and cleaning products
- Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth
- Store separately to avoid scratching from harder stones
- Remove before swimming — chlorine and salt water can affect the surface over time
With proper care, lapis lazuli jewellery will retain its depth of colour and lustre for generations.
Shop Lapis Lazuli Jewellery
Explore the full Taylor Black lapis lazuli collection — from everyday studs to statement pendants and stacking rings, all handcrafted in gold.
- Large Stellar Blue Disc Pendant Necklace
- Small Stellar Blue Disc Pendant Necklace
- Stellar Two Stone Blue Lapis Lazuli and Diamond Necklace
- Stellar Blue and Gold Nugget Studs
- Stellar Two Stone Blue Lapis Lazuli and Gold Diamond Studs
- Orange Sapphire and Lapis Mina Studs
- Stellar Blue and Gold Ring
- Stellar Blue Lapis Lazuli Small Stacking Ring