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

This pair of lapis offered by The Natural Gemstone Company presents as a finely matched duo with weights of 4.56 carats and 4.82 carats respectively, cushion shape, and tablet cut. The proportions are 14.15 mm by 12.14 mm by 2.49 mm for the smaller stone, and 14.15 mm by 12.23 mm by 2.58 mm for the larger stone, each exhibiting a purplish blue hue with vivid color intensity and an excellent polish. These stones are opaque, as is typical for high quality lapis, and they show no enhancements or treatments, which is an important attribute for collectors and discerning buyers who value natural state material. The surface finish is smooth and well maintained, allowing the intrinsic color and texture of the lapis to be appreciated when set in jewelry, and the tablet cut preserves a broad face for color presentation while retaining a low profile suitable for comfortable wear.

When evaluating lapis lazuli, color is the primary determinant of value, more so than what is commonly called clarity for transparent gemstones, and these pieces demonstrate a deep, saturated blue with a subtle purplish overtone that appeals to connoisseurs who favor a richer tone. The grading for a lapis like this focuses on hue, tone, and saturation, along with the presence or absence of unwanted white calcite veining and the distribution of pyrite inclusions. Excessive calcite lightening will detract from value, while fine, evenly distributed pyrite can enhance visual interest without compromising the overall color field. In this pair the color appears uniform across the tablet surfaces, with the polish revealing a dense, consistent matrix. Under magnification a trained gemologist would assess the internal texture and any speckling, however these stones present the sort of homogeneity and color saturation that signal material of superior aesthetic quality, and the absence of enhancement further strengthens their appeal to educated buyers.

The tablet cut and cushion outline were chosen to maximize surface color, and the dimensions and thickness of these pieces make them versatile for a range of settings. The cushion shape offers a classic, softened square silhouette that reads well in both contemporary and traditional designs, and the tablet cut maintains a low profile which is ideal for earrings, cufflinks, or flat bezel settings in rings and pendants. The close correspondence in length and width, with only a small variance in thickness and weight, makes them particularly well suited as an earring pair or matched in a mirrored pendant design, where symmetry and similar light reflection are important. In terms of durability and care, lapis lazuli typically ranks around five on the Mohs hardness scale, so it requires consideration during setting and wear to avoid abrasion and impact, and it should be protected from prolonged exposure to acids and household chemicals that can damage the surface. For longevity we recommend secure bezel settings that protect the stone edges, avoiding high heat and ultrasonic cleaners, and routine gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild, pH neutral soap and water when necessary.

Provenance is a meaningful component of value, and these stones originate from Afghanistan, a region with a long and respected history for producing classic lapis of deep, velvety blue. Stones from renowned sources often command a premium when they are untreated and exhibit the visual qualities that collectors seek, and these examples, supplied by The Natural Gemstone Company, come to market without enhancement. For buyers interested in the investment and collectible aspects, untreated lapis with vivid color and good matching is rare enough to retain desirability over time. We are able to provide additional detailed photographs, microscopic imaging, and independent gemological documentation on request to support purchase decisions and to verify the particulars of origin and treatment. If you prefer, our specialists can advise on custom mounting options and design approaches that highlight the tablet face and protect the stones, ensuring that the final piece balances beauty, functionality, and preservation.