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

This pair of lapis stones, presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, comprises two matching cushion shapes, each weighing 3.48 carats. The stones measure 12.14 by 10.20 by 2.84 millimeters and 12.13 by 10.20 by 2.59 millimeters respectively, reflecting the careful attention paid to dimensional consistency in the cutting process. Both stones are tablet cut, a shallow cabochon style that emphasizes surface color and luster while preserving maximum material. The gems are opaque in body color, exhibiting an intense color intensity, and they receive an excellent polish that enhances surface reflectivity and tactile smoothness. There are no enhancements reported, the stones are natural and untreated, and their documented origin is Afghanistan, a region long recognized for producing high quality lapis material.

Color and internal characteristics define the visual appeal of these lapis stones. The body tone is a vivid, saturated blue with a depth that remains consistent across both pieces, a quality that is especially desirable for matched pairs intended for earrings or a two stone pendant. Subtle, fine specks of metallic luster can be observed within the material, appearing as fine golden flecks against the blue field. These inclusions are consistent with native pyrite, a common and distinctive accessory mineral in classic Afghan lapis, and they provide a natural contrast that contributes to the historic aesthetic associated with this gem species. The tablet cut produces broad, even surfaces that display the color uniformly, while the cushion outline offers slightly softened corners that read well in both traditional and contemporary mounting styles.

From a practical and gemological perspective these lapis stones present predictable handling and setting considerations. Lapis lazuli is classically an opaque metamorphic rock, primarily composed of the mineral lazurite with accessory calcite and pyrite, and it typically polishes to a satin to high luster finish. The reported dimensions and matched weights indicate that these two stones will align closely in weight balance and visual proportion when set together, reducing the need for compensatory design adjustments. In terms of hardness and wearability, lapis commonly registers around 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, which implies that while it is suitable for many types of jewelry, care should be taken to avoid abrasive contact and hard knocks. Recommended precautions include setting the stones in protective bezel or partial bezel settings for rings, and employing secure prong work or closed back settings for pendants and brooches. Routine cleaning may be performed with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, rinsed and dried promptly, and prolonged exposure to acids, strong detergents, or ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided to preserve surface polish and matrix integrity.

Provenance and treatment status are increasingly important to collectors and designers, and these pieces offer clear documentation of both. The lack of enhancement indicates no dyeing, resin impregnation, or other common treatments applied to improve color or stability, and the Afghan origin aligns with material historically prized for its deep blue and characteristic pyrite inclusions. For those who require formal documentation, The Natural Gemstone Company can facilitate independent testing or provide additional high resolution images and angle views to assist with design planning. These stones are well suited for use in matched earring pairs, a complementary pendant and small brooch, or as focal elements in custom design work where the presence of natural pyrite inclusions is desired for visual interest. Further technical information, including light performance under specific lamp types, mounting recommendations from a fabrication perspective, and certification options, is available upon request.