Lapis Lazuli (Sapphire)

Saint Hildegarde called all the sapphire stones a sapphire of deep blue, it is difficult to determine which one she was referring to exactly. She said about the “sapphire” that it : “is formed in the middle of the day, when the sun, in its ardour, burns so strongly that sometimes the air is thickened by it. It represents charity filled with wisdom.” (Physica ch VI) Saint Hildegarde mentions many virtues for the sapphire and it is therefore important to determine the use one wants to make of the stone before choosing it. Lapis lazuli should generally be used through contact with the mouth, as is the case for stimulating one’s intelligence. For example, the stone can also be heated and applied directly, but it can also be used with wine to repel an unwanted insistent suitor.