Lapis 5-14mm Graduated Chip Bead - 15-16 Inch Large Hole prized throughout history for its

prized throughout history for its beautiful colors and patterns

in a variety of swirling and linear patterns

It has also been considered a sacred stone in India throughout its history

Its needle to like inclusions of hematite are iridescent red

Lapis 5-14mm Graduated Chip Bead - 15-16 Inch Large Hole prized throughout history for itsLapis is a semi to precious stone and one of the most sought after throughout history. It is highly regarded for its beautiful blue color flecked with gold inclusions of pyrite, and was prized in ancient times for the ultramarine dye derived from it. This dye was said to create Michelangelos favorite shade of blue. It is one of the worlds oldest known stones, mined since 4000 BCE, originally from the Lapis to Lazuli mine in Afghanistan.