Lapis Lazuli and Mauritanian Gold-Wash Silver Necklace with Mauritanian Gold Wash Star of David
This stunning blue-and-gold Judaica necklace features a very rare Mauritanian gold wash over silver Star of David, delicate Mauritanian goldwah silver filigree beads, and faceted lapis lazuli. A rare combination, a modern interpretation of antique beads and old traditions.
This is an excellent gift for a Bat Mitzvah, Hanukkah, or any other occasions in the Jewish Calendar.
The Star of David has been found as an architectural motif in ancient synagogues as early as the 3rd century AD. It started appearing in Jewish texts by the 11th century, and became particularly prominent in medieval Kabbalistic texts. By the 16th century, it became an official symbol of the Jewish communities, appearing on flags, prayer books, Seder plates, and many other objects of Jewish life and ritual. The Star of David remains perhaps the most recognizable Jewish symbol today.
About Lapis Lazuli:
Lapis lazuli is a composite rock containing lazurite, calcite, pyrite, and a number of other minerals in varying quantities. The ancients called it sapphire for the blue color, not to confuse it with the modern sapphire which is a different gem). It also was known as Ultramarinum (beyond the sea), when it was first introduced to Europe.
Since antiquity, the main source of Lapis Lazuli was ancient Bactria (now Afghanistan), where ancient mines are still producing the world supplies of this beautiful stone. It was used in religious objects, amulets, and jewelry, as well as in pigments and paints since Neolithic times. Jewelry made of lapis lazuli has been found in prehistoric tombs across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Ancient Sumerians believed it was a royal stone, and through the centuries its “royal blue” color has been associated with royalty. It is said that the breastplate of the Jewish High Priest Aaron included the stone lapis (although referred to as sapphire). Ancient Egyptians loved it in jewelry and amulets, they also appear to be the first to use powdered lapis lazuli in makeup. Lapis Lazuli is found in many Egyptian royal tombs, including that of Tutankhamun.
Its timeless beauty keeps it a favorite in modern times as well. Lapis lazuli is the Traditional birthstone for December and the accepted gem for the seventh and ninth wedding anniversaries. It is the Planetary stone for Capricorn and the Zodiac stone for Libra.
