Lapis lazuli, with its striking royal blue hues and flecks of gold pyrite, is a gemstone of history, beauty, and mystique. Revered for its spiritual and metaphysical properties, it’s no wonder many treasure it as both a decorative and symbolic stone. However, its unique composition means it requires special care, especially when it comes to cleansing.In this blog, we’ll address two key questions: Is lapis lazuli water safe? and How should you cleanse lapis lazuli without damaging it?
Is Lapis Lazuli Water Safe?
The short answer is no, lapis lazuli is not entirely water safe. Here’s why:
1. Composition of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a composite stone made of multiple minerals, including:
- Lazurite (the blue component)
- Calcite (white streaks)
- Pyrite (gold flecks)
The presence of calcite, a soft and porous mineral, makes lapis lazuli vulnerable to water damage. Prolonged exposure to water can cause:
- Loss of polish and luster
- Dulling of its vibrant blue color
- Structural weakening due to mineral dissolution
2. Hardness on the Mohs Scale
With a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, lapis lazuli is softer than many gemstones. Water, especially if combined with abrasive cleaning or harsh chemicals, can easily damage its surface.
How to Cleanse Lapis Lazuli Properly
If absolutely necessary, you can use a minimal amount of water for quick cleaning:
- Dampen a soft cloth with clean, room-temperature water.
- Gently wipe the stone’s surface to remove dirt or residue.
- Immediately dry it with a clean, soft cloth to prevent absorption or watermarks.
Important Note: Never soak lapis lazuli in water, saltwater, or cleaning solutions, as these can cause irreversible damage.
How to Cleanse the Negative Energy attached on Lapis Lazuli Properly
Since water isn’t the best option, here are safer and effective ways to cleanse your lapis lazuli:
1. Smudging with Smoke
Burning sage, palo santo, or incense and passing your lapis lazuli through the smoke is one of the safest and most traditional ways to cleanse it. The smoke clears negative energy without affecting the stone’s structure.
2. Using Sound Vibrations
Sound waves from singing bowls, tuning forks, or bells can cleanse lapis lazuli by resetting its energy. Simply place the stone near the source of the sound and let the vibrations do the work.
3. Moonlight Cleansing
Place your lapis lazuli under the light of the full moon overnight. Moonlight is gentle and won’t damage the stone while energetically recharging it.
4. Dry Salt Cleansing
If you prefer using salt, bury the stone in a bowl of dry sea salt or Himalayan salt for a few hours. Ensure the salt is completely dry, as moisture can seep into the stone and cause damage.
5. Selenite Charging
Place your lapis lazuli on a selenite charging plate or near a selenite wand. Selenite is a natural cleanser and amplifier, making it a great companion for lapis lazuli.
Why Does Lapis Lazuli Need Cleansing?
Lapis lazuli is believed to absorb energy, especially when used for metaphysical purposes like meditation or emotional healing. Regular cleansing ensures that the stone remains energetically vibrant and free from residual negativity, allowing it to function at its full potential.
How Often Should You Cleanse Lapis Lazuli?
The frequency of cleansing depends on how often you use the stone:
- Frequent Use (e.g., daily wear or meditation): Cleanse once a week.
- Occasional Use: Cleanse once a month or during significant celestial events, such as a full moon.
Final Thoughts
While lapis lazuli is a stunning and powerful stone, it’s not water safe due to its porous composition and delicate nature. Instead of traditional water-based cleaning methods, opt for alternative cleansing techniques like smudging, moonlight, or sound vibrations to maintain its beauty and energy.
By caring for your lapis lazuli properly, you ensure that it continues to shine and support you in its full brilliance for years to come.
Do you have a favorite way to cleanse lapis lazuli? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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