4.50 Ct. Lapis from Afghanistan

One beautiful opaque 4.50 carat cushion shape blue lapis is presented with precise dimensions of 15.07 x 12.99 x 2.14 mm, making this specimen an ideal size for a striking single stone pendant or a statement ring. The stone is a tablet cut, a shallow cabochon style that emphasizes surface color and reflection rather than faceting. Color is the primary determinant of value for lapis, and this example displays an intense, vivid blue that reads as deep royal to ultramarine in daylight, with well distributed saturation across the tablet surface. The polish is excellent, resulting in a smooth reflective face that brings out the lapis character and pyrite inclusions. This piece is unenhanced, no enhancement, which means there has been no dyeing, no heat treatment, no resin impregnation, and no filling, attributes that collectors and connoisseurs value highly. The origin is Afghanistan, a classical source known for producing some of the most historically prized lapis material, and this provenance contributes to the desirability of the stone for educated buyers seeking authenticity and provenance.

In evaluating this lapis from a grading perspective, several key attributes are noteworthy for an informed purchaser. Color intensity is intense and evenly distributed, an attribute that commands a premium, because lapis with uniform deep blue tones will translate to a more cohesive appearance in finished jewelry. Clarity in lapis is assessed differently than in transparent gemstones, it is about the distribution and character of inclusions rather than optical transparency. The visible pyrite flecks and veins in this stone are well positioned and form attractive golden lines across the blue field, adding contrast and a natural aesthetic signature, rather than detracting as flaws. Minimal or absent white calcite veining is another positive factor, and this piece shows a clean blue ground with limited lighter matrix, which enhances color saturation. The tablet cut and cushion outline are chosen to showcase the rich color and to accommodate the natural pyrite pattern, and the low profile of the tablet cut sits comfortably against the skin, reducing the risk of mechanical damage while still offering visual impact. The dimensions 15.07 x 12.99 x 2.14 mm and weight 4.50 carat make this a versatile size for many design applications, while the excellent polish ensures strong surface luster that will respond well to lighting in a gallery or retail environment.

Provenance from Afghanistan, specifically from historic sources such as the Sar e Sang region, is an important part of the stone story for collectors and institutions, and it often signals material with superior color and the characteristic ilmenite and pyrite inclusions that are embraced in high end lapis pieces. Geological formation of lapis involves metamorphic processes that concentrate lazurite, the mineral responsible for the blue color, and the presence of pyrite contributes to the classic look that many buyers seek. The fact that this stone is natural and untreated amplifies its value, because much commercial lapis on the market has been dyed or stabilized to improve appearance. For durability and care, lapis has a Mohs hardness in the range of 5 to 5.5, which means it is softer than many common jewelry gems, and it should be protected from hard knocks, abrasive cleaning, and exposure to acids and household chemicals. Cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended, and avoid steam cleaning and ultrasonic baths. In setting the stone, consider a bezel or protective setting that reduces edge exposure, because the tablet cut is shallow and a flush or low bezel will both secure the stone and showcase the color while offering practical protection.

From a market and collector perspective, this unenhanced Afghan lapis represents a compelling balance of aesthetic appeal and responsible sourcing, attributes that appeal to educated buyers looking for both beauty and integrity. Lapis of intense, uniform blue with attractive pyrite patterning is relatively rare in the higher quality tiers, and specimens that combine good carat weight and clean ground color command interest from designers, collectors, and private clients building a gemstone collection. The cushion tablet format is versatile in design, allowing for classic solitaire treatments, cluster settings with accent stones, or bespoke artisan pieces that highlight the natural pyrite lines like a landscape painting in stone. The Natural Gemstone Company offers this lapis with full disclosure of its parameters, and we can provide additional high resolution imagery, appraisal guidance, and advice on compatible mountings for long term wear. For anyone seeking a lapis that combines historic provenance, natural authenticity, and a strong visual presence, this 4.50 carat cushion shape tablet cut from Afghanistan is a rare find that will perform well both as a wearable object and as a collectible investment grade specimen.