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

This matched pair of lapis presents as an elegant and technically precise offering from The Natural Gemstone Company, with weights of 2.33 carats and 2.39 carats respectively. Both stones are executed in a cushion shape, with careful dimensional control yielding measurements of 10.13 millimeters by 8.13 millimeters by 2.75 millimeters for the first, and 10.07 millimeters by 8.13 millimeters by 2.74 millimeters for the second. The cutting style is a tablet cut, which in these examples produces a low profile, broad face and gently rounded edges that accentuate the saturated blue plane without introducing complex facet patterns. Color intensity is classified as intense, indicating deep, homogeneous blue saturation across the viewing plane, and polish quality is excellent, delivering a smooth tactile surface and a refined, slightly vitreous to waxy sheen typical of high grade lapis. Enhancement status is nil, the material is untreated, and the documented origin is Afghanistan, a classical provenance that contributes to the piece provenance and collector interest.

From a lapidary perspective the tablet cut employed here is an intentional choice to maximize the depth and uniformity of color while minimizing the visual interruption of pyrite inclusions and matrix veining. Tablet cuts are characterized by a shallow crown and a minimal pavilion, yielding a slab like profile that emphasizes the stone surface rather than internal play. For these cushions the cutter has maintained very consistent thickness across both examples, which is essential when producing matched pairs intended for symmetrical jewelry applications. Edge rounding has been executed with controlled curvature, avoiding abrupt facets or thin girdles that would increase susceptibility to chipping. The cutting lines are strategic, following color zoning within the rough to center the most vibrant blue across the observable table, while also distributing pyrite specks in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The excellent polish results from progressive micron grade abrasives and final lapping with cerium or diamond paste, producing an even reflective layer that enhances perceived depth despite the shallow profile.

Color grading for lapis relies on saturation uniformity, hue purity, and the character of accessory inclusions, and these two stones exhibit attributes that place them at a premium within natural, untreated material. The dominant hue is deep ultramarine to slightly violet biased blue, consistent across both pieces, with intense chroma that reads vividly under standard daylight viewing. Pyrite inclusions are present as small, well dispersed brassy flecks, which in this material are often sought by collectors because they create a subtle metallic luster that contrasts with the matte background of the host mineral. Importantly, there is minimal diffuse white calcite veining visible, which maintains visual continuity of the blue field and avoids the patchy, washed out appearance that lowers grade. The pair is closely matched in size and weight with only a 0.06 carat difference, and with dimensional variances within a few hundredths of a millimeter, ensuring consistent optical alignment when set. These matching parameters are especially important for matched earring pairs, cufflink faces, or mirrored pendant components where symmetry is a critical aesthetic and technical requirement.

For practical fabrication and long term wearability the physical properties of lapis require considered design and handling choices, and these specimens are optimized for a variety of settings provided appropriate precautions are taken. With thicknesses near 2.75 millimeters the stones are ideal for bezel settings where the metal rim can protect the perimeter, and for low profile prong or channel mounts provided that prong placement avoids clamping over areas of pyrite to prevent fracturing. Given the Mohs hardness range of approximately 5.0 to 5.5, lapis is softer than many traditional gems, so impact resistance is limited and designers should avoid exposed solitaire rings for daily wear unless the mounting provides full protective coverage. Adhesive bonding during production can be used for certain inlay applications, but only after ensuring surfaces are clean and flat, and technicians should avoid aggressive thermal or chemical exposure during setting. For cleaning and care, warm water with mild detergent and a soft brush is recommended, and steam or ultrasonic cleaning should be avoided to prevent micro fissure propagation. The natural, untreated origin from Afghanistan not only enhances provenance but also implies classic mineralogical characteristics that informed the cutting decisions, and when combined with the precise matching and polish delivered by The Natural Gemstone Company, the pair represents a reliable option for designers and collectors seeking authentic lapis with consistent color, careful tablet cutting, and robust finishing for refined jewelry applications.