A Crystal Kind of Time

Welcome to the world of crystals! Whether it’s a specific gemstone, a favorite jewel, or a pretty rock you find hiking in the woods, you are holding a crystal. A common question is, “Isn’t it a rock?” Yes, in a way, it is a rock, but crystals have more dimension, more healing qualities, are used in meditations, and have a wider color range.

Our focus today is lapis lazuli. This remarkable, dark blue stone has been used for multiple purposes dating back to the ancient Egyptians. They featured it in royal regalia and amulets, and even used it in powdered form as eyeshadow (Crystals by Jennie Harding).

“Did you know lapis lazuli powder was used for pigment when modern paint started being colored?” My father, Tony DiDomenico, is who we call Mr. Trivia, and as soon as I mentioned lapis lazuli, he asked me. Now you can show off your own trivia skills!

Today, lapis lazuli is used for energy-healing, chakra-cleansing, and in jewelry.

Fun fact: lapis lazuli is a secondary birthstone for September (the primary being sapphire), and is one of the gemstones for Libra.

For those of you who know of chakras and believe in the natural energies of the world, lapis lazuli corresponds with the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, connecting the wearer to the Inner Self and the “awareness of spiritual purpose in life” (Crystals by Jennie Harding).

To use it in meditation, place yourself in a quiet room, maybe light a candle, and make yourself comfortable. Turn off your cell phone, don’t have any electronics nearby, and either hold the crystal in your hands, or cover a small area with a cloth, and simply be present with the crystal. Close your eyes, breathe normally, and allow yourself to feel the energies clearing.

It does take some time to get used to it, so don’t be disappointed if you don’t feel anything the first meditation.

Check out Mother Earth in New Milford, try to find a piece of lapis lazuli about the size of your palm, and try it out. Who knows, maybe you’ll find yourself drawn to this crystal for everyday cleansing.

(Photo from www.gemstonebuzz.com)