3.37 Ct. Lapis from Afghanistan

This specimen is a 3.37 carat cushion shape blue lapis, presented in a tablet cut, with dimensions of 13.95 x 10.78 x 2.05 mm. The stone is opaque, exhibiting a vivid color intensity that is both deep and evenly distributed across the table. The polish is excellent, producing a satin to subtle gloss finish that accentuates the inherent depth of the blue while maintaining the solid, tactile quality characteristic of genuine lapis. The material is unenhanced, with no dyeing, impregnation, or surface treatments applied, and it is sourced from Afghanistan, a region renowned for producing lapis of historically significant color and composition. These baseline specifications provide a clear and objective framework for assessing the gem, and they will be useful for mounting decisions, design considerations, and certification purposes.

Inclusions within this lapis serve as natural signatures that confirm its geological origin and add to its individual character. Lapis typically forms as an aggregate of the blue sodium aluminum silicate mineral lazurite together with white calcite and metallic pyrite. In this piece, fine pale specks and occasional subtle streaks present a soft contrast against the dominant blue ground, and minute metallic points give a restrained, natural shimmer when viewed at close range. These internal features are not flaws in the conventional sense, they are diagnostic markers. The interplay of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite creates a micro landscape unique to each cabochon, allowing gemologists and connoisseurs to distinguish one natural specimen from another. Under magnification, the distribution and morphology of the calcite inclusions and pyrite flecks remain consistent with high quality Afghan lapis, supporting provenance claims while imparting a sense of authenticity and provenance that synthetic or heavily treated materials do not replicate.

The tablet cut and cushion outline make this lapis particularly suitable for a range of jewelry settings where a stable, flat profile is desired. The low domed tablet face enables good surface contact with bezels and inlay channels, while the cushion perimeter offers a classic silhouette compatible with both modern and traditional designs. Because the stone is opaque, light transmission considerations are secondary to surface reflection and color saturation, so the excellent polish is especially important in presenting the lapis at its best. The vivid blue will read well in yellow gold, white gold, and sterling silver, each metal tempering the overall visual temperature in a different way. Practical handling notes include avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh acids, abrasive cleaners, and high heat, as these conditions can affect ancillary minerals such as calcite. Routine wear and care are straightforward, and the robustness of the cut combined with the measured proportions of 13.95 x 10.78 x 2.05 mm offers a balance of presence and comfort for daily wear pieces or statement items.

The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the documented attributes of this lapis, including the carat weight, dimensions, tablet cut, vivid color intensity, excellent polish, lack of enhancement, and Afghan origin. For collectors and designers seeking a naturally occurring specimen with clear, verifiable characteristics, this stone offers both geological interest and practical utility. The visible inclusions are described and valued as identifiers that contribute to the gemology and aesthetics of the piece, rather than as compromises to quality. When considered as an addition to a collection or as the focal element of a custom setting, this cushion tablet lapis provides a responsibly sourced option with transparent material information. We encourage careful appraisal of the physical descriptions for setting planning and certification, and our team is available to provide further measured data or ancillary images to support design and authentication needs.