Considered in legend to be the gem of Venus, goddess of Love, lapis lazuli was also the particular favorite of the Pharaohs of Egypt and their royal wives. Because the wonderful blue color of the stone resembles the heavens, lapis was believed to counteract the spirits of darkness, and elicit favor of the spirits of light and wisdom. The lapis beads display a rich luster of subtle blue shades, interspersed with glittering pyrite found naturally in the gem. The silver of the tassel blends beautifully with the rich blue, and is very effective in contrasting a delicately ornate style with the smooth texture of the beads. The 'artistry' of nature combines with the 'artistry' of a master jewelry to create a particularly lovely set of prayer beads.