7.01 Ct.Tw.Total Carat Weight Cabochon Lapis Pair from Afghanistan

This pair of natural lapis from The Natural Gemstone Company presents a technical study in cabochon precision and material quality, offered as matching round cabochons weighing 3.24 carats and 3.77 carats respectively. Each stone is cut to a circular outline with dimensions of 12.14 x 12.17 x 2.39 mm and 12.05 x 12.07 x 2.08 mm, indicating tight tolerances in diameter and a deliberately shallow dome profile that favors applications such as stud earrings, inlay work, and low profile bezel settings. The cutting style is classic cabochon, executed to preserve the opaque, homogeneous blue body color, with a surface contour that is symmetrical and proportioned for even light return across the face. Color intensity is classified as vivid, presenting a saturated ultramarine to royal blue tone with minimal tonal zoning, and the polish is described as excellent, yielding a smooth, high luster surface free of polishing pits or abrasions. There is no enhancement to these pieces, they are natural lapis with provenance recorded as Afghanistan, a source renowned for its deep blue lazurite material.

From a material science perspective, these lapis specimens demonstrate the expected aggregate microstructure of lazurite with accessory mineral inclusions, resulting in an opaque optical characteristic and uniform color distribution. Under magnification the stones reveal discrete metallic flecking consistent with iron sulfide inclusions, which in high quality Afghan lapis often occur as fine pyrite specks that provide a subtle metallic contrast without compromising the overall blue saturation. Calcite veining and white bleaching that reduce value are minimal or absent in these specimens, contributing to the vivid color grade and visual homogeneity. The cabochon cut leverages the material opacity, eliminating the need for faceting to enhance brilliance, while emphasizing color and surface finish. The cutters achieved tight edge roundness and consistent crown curvature, with back faces flattened and planed to the specified thicknesses to ensure secure seating in settings and predictable weight distribution. Polishing was completed using industry standard abrasives and polishing compounds, producing an even, mirrorlike surface across both stones.

For practical gemological handling and jewelry design, the shallow dome heights of 2.39 mm and 2.08 mm are advantageous for low profile mounting, but they also require careful setting choices to protect the stone from edge chipping and surface abrasion. Bezel settings, flush mounts, or channel inlay are recommended for long term durability, and when set as a matched pair in earrings, the slight weight variance is compensated by near identical diameters and color match, producing a balanced visual appearance. Lapis has a Mohs hardness in the mid range, and given its composite nature it is more susceptible to surface damage from harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaning, and steam treatments. Routine care involves gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, avoiding prolonged exposure to perfumes, cosmetics, and household chemicals that may interact with accessory minerals. Because these pieces are unenhanced and of clear natural origin from Afghanistan, they carry aesthetic and collector value for buyers who prioritize untreated gem material, and The Natural Gemstone Company documents these attributes to assist in verification and appraisal. For designers and connoisseurs seeking a vivid, opaque blue with classic cabochon character, this pair offers precision cutting, consistent color saturation, and craftsmanship suitable for fine jewelry applications.