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

At The Natural Gemstone Company we are pleased to present a truly striking matching pair of natural lapis lazuli cabochons that combine classic color with excellent proportions. Each stone is a cushion shape cabochon, weighing 3.86 carats and 3.94 carats respectively, with measurements of 10.99 x 9.15 x 4.29 mm and 11.03 x 9.04 x 4.32 mm. These lapis are opaque as is typical for fine material of this species, and they display vivid color intensity that immediately draws the eye. The polish on each cabochon is excellent, giving a smooth, reflective surface that highlights the deep ultramarine tones and any fine speckling within the stone. Importantly, these gems have no enhancement, they are natural and untreated, and their origin is Afghanistan, a region renowned for producing some of the most desirable lapis lazuli in the world. As a matched pair, they are well balanced in weight, color and form, making them ideal for use together in a single jewelry design, where symmetry and harmony are essential.

Describing the visual character, these cushion cabochons show a saturated blue that reads as deep royal to ultramarine under balanced lighting, with subtle complexity that gives the material life. You will notice gentle variations in tone across each stone, which is an attractive hallmark of natural lapis lazuli and contributes to a three dimensional depth when set. Small inclusions and fine metallic flecks appear in the surface plane, adding a quiet shimmer that contrasts beautifully with the velvety blue body color. The cabochon cut was selected to maximize the color and surface luster rather than a faceted brilliance, and the result is a classic, sun warmed look that suits both contemporary and traditional settings. These gems photograph attractively, and in person they present a tactile heft and smoothness that is reassuring to hold, indicating careful cutting and consistent polishing standards.

As a salesperson with expertise in gemstones, I recommend several creative and secure ways to showcase these matching lapis cabochons. They are sized and matched very well for a pair of earrings, either as simple stud earrings or as the central stones in drop or halo designs. For earrings, consider a bezel setting in warm yellow gold to enhance the rich blue, or sterling silver to create a crisp modern contrast. The stones would also make a beautiful matching pair of cufflinks or could be used as mirror set accents in a pendant and ring combination for a coordinated set. Given their dimensions and even profiles, they can be reliably set with a thin bezel rim that protects the edges while showcasing the broad domed surfaces, or with low profile prongs for a more open face. For designers who prefer a more artisanal expression, these lapis pieces respond well to hand engraved bezels and mixed metal treatments, allowing the deep blue tones to be framed by textured metals or small accent stones, such as small diamonds or warm colored sapphires, which will play nicely against the blue without overpowering it.

Caring for lapis lazuli is straightforward, and with the no enhancement guarantee from The Natural Gemstone Company, you can enjoy these stones with confidence. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong acids, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaning, as lapis can include calcite and other sensitive components that are affected by harsh chemicals and extreme heat. Clean gently with a soft cloth and warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry gently to maintain the surface polish and color. When storing, keep the pair separated from harder gemstones to prevent scratches on the cabochon surfaces, or store in a soft pouch or compartmentalized jewelry box. If you are considering commission work, please tell us your preferred metal, style and mounting preferences, and we will be happy to advise on the best bezel thickness and prong placement to protect the stones while showcasing their vivid color. At The Natural Gemstone Company we stand behind the provenance and quality of every gem, and these Afghan lapis cabochons are offered as natural, untreated examples of classic lapis beauty, ready for immediate use in a cherished finished piece.