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

This matched pair of opaque blue lapis presents a precise combination of size, color, and finish that is well suited for matched jewelry applications. Individually they weigh 3.24 carats and 3.77 carats, and each is fashioned into a round cabochon, with dimensions 12.14 x 12.17 x 2.39 millimeters for the smaller stone, and 12.05 x 12.07 x 2.08 millimeters for the larger stone. The cabochon cut preserves a smooth domed surface, allowing the vivid blue color intensity to read consistently across each face, and the excellent polish enhances the uniformity of surface reflection without introducing artificial luster. These stones are naturally untreated, no enhancement, and their origin is Afghanistan, which contributes to their characteristic deep ultramarine hue and authentic surface matrix. The overall appearance is opaque, with minimal translucency limited to edge thickness, providing a saturated field of color that is visually strong and stable under varied lighting conditions.

The matching clarity between the two pieces is a notable attribute that makes them particularly appropriate for symmetrical designs, and this matching is evident in several measurable and observable ways. Clarity in opaque lapis is best evaluated by the consistency of color saturation, the evenness of the surface field, and the nature and distribution of primary matrix or mineral inclusions such as pyrite or darker calcite spots. In this pair the deep blue field is uniform in tone, and the patterning of metallic and darker inclusions is comparable in scale and density, allowing the pair to read as a cohesive unit when set side by side. The near equivalence of dimensions and the close carat weights ensure balanced visual mass, so when the stones are mounted opposite each other the silhouette and profile remain symmetrical, avoiding visual dominance of one stone over the other. The cabochon profile also contributes to matched optical behavior, producing similar highlights and surface reflections that align when the pieces are placed in mirrored settings, which is a critical factor for earrings, cufflinks, matched pendant pairs, and bilateral inlay work.

From a design and fabrication perspective the stones accommodate a range of symmetric mounting options while minimizing the need for compensatory adjustment. The combination of stable opacity and matched surface characteristics favors bezel settings or low-profile collet mounts that protect the edges and emphasize the planar continuity of the blue field, and the consistent thickness values make them suitable for identical seat depths in paired settings. For designers seeking a mirrored statement, the pair requires only minor bezel tolerances to achieve precise alignment, and the excellent polish reduces the necessity for additional surface work during setting. Care and maintenance are straightforward, given the lack of enhancements, and standard precautions against harsh acids and prolonged ultrasonic exposure are advisable to preserve the polish and matrix integrity. The Natural Gemstone Company documents the provenance and treatment status of these pieces as part of its quality assurance process, and the attention to matching clarity and dimensional parity reflects our approach to supplying pairs intended for symmetrical, high fidelity applications.