4.70 Ct.Tw.Total Carat Weight Lapis Pair from Afghanistan

This pair of cushion shaped lapis from The Natural Gemstone Company presents as an elegant and classical combination of weight and proportion, ideal for matched jewelry such as stud or drop earrings, or for a refined pendant pair. The two stones weigh 2.31 carats and 2.39 carats respectively, with dimensions of 10.18 x 8.18 x 2.69 millimeters and 10.15 x 8.18 x 2.64 millimeters, a consistent tablet cut that emphasizes the rich blue plane of the material, and an excellent polish that enhances surface luster without introducing artificial sheen. These pieces are opaque, as is characteristic for quality lapis, and show an intense blue color intensity that reads well against both warm and cool metal settings. The combination of cushion outline and tablet cutting creates broad color fields which are especially desirable in lapis because they allow the depth and saturation of the blue to be appreciated at a glance, while the shallow tablet profile keeps the stones comfortable to wear and adaptable to a variety of mounting styles.

From a gemological and grading perspective, these lapis stones exhibit attributes that make them attractive to an educated buyer who values natural character and provenance. Lapis lazuli is typically graded on color, texture, and the presence and distribution of inclusions such as pyrite and calcite. These particular examples show a strong, even ultramarine to royal blue hue with minimal light areas of white calcite, and tasteful, naturally occurring pyrite flecks that add a metallic sparkle and are often sought after as indicators of authentic Afghan lapis. Clarity for lapis is evaluated differently than for transparent gemstones, where the absence of fractures and the uniformity of color and texture take precedence. These stones are opaque and dense, with stable color distribution and no fractures or treated surfaces visible under loupe inspection. Importantly, the stones are offered with no enhancement, which means there has been no dyeing, resin impregnation, or other treatments applied to alter color or stability. For an informed collector or jewelry designer, no enhancement provides assurance of natural material integrity and simplifies long term care and resale considerations.

The origin of these lapis stones, Afghanistan, carries significant weight in both historical and market contexts, and knowing source information is a meaningful part of provenance for serious buyers. Afghan lapis, particularly from well known regions in the Hindu Kush, has been prized since antiquity for producing some of the deepest and purest blue material available on the market. This geographic origin contributes to both aesthetic desirability and collectible value, because historically consistent deposits yield material with characteristic color and inclusion patterns that are difficult to replicate elsewhere. For the practical buyer these stones are also attractive because their tablet cut and excellent polish reduce the risk of edge chipping in daily wear, while the modest thickness lends itself to secure bezel or low profile prong settings. Lapis has a Mohs hardness in the mid range, so it is best set in designs that protect the stone from hard knocks and abrasive surfaces. Cleaning is straightforward, using mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft cloth, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, particularly because untreated lapis benefits from gentle handling to preserve its natural surface and pyrite accents.

When considering value and suitability for investment grade or bespoke pieces, these matched cushion tablets represent a balanced offering, combining authentic natural color, no enhancement, and reputable Afghan origin, all presented by The Natural Gemstone Company with clear measurements and weights. For designers and collectors seeking material that communicates authenticity and artisanal sophistication, the natural pyrite inclusions and intense color saturation offer a visual narrative that complements fine metals and craftsmanship. Pairing these stones will allow consistent color matching in a finished piece, and their tablet cut optimizes the visible color while minimizing unnecessary depth that would add weight without contributing to appearance. Our team can provide additional information on setting recommendations, matching services, and provenance documentation to support appraisal and resale. These lapis pieces stand as an excellent choice for those who value historically significant origins, natural integrity without enhancement, and the pleasing aesthetic of a deeply saturated blue that has been cherished for millennia.