4.68 Ct. Cabochon Lapis from Afghanistan

Lapis lazuli has been treasured for millennia, a gemstone that carries the weight of empires and the quiet dignity of sacred art. From the burial masks of ancient Egypt to the illuminated manuscripts of medieval Europe, deep blue lapis has symbolized royalty, wisdom, and the bridge between heaven and earth. The most prized deposits of the ancient world came from the mountains of what is now Afghanistan, a place where miners have extracted this stone for thousands of years by hand, following veins that have fed the palettes of painters and the treasuries of kings. This particular cabochon brings forward that lineage, a single gem that feels like a fragment of history polished into wearable form, connecting contemporary design to a tradition that spans continents and centuries.

This gemstone is a 4.68 carat cushion shape lapis, with dimensions of 10.20 by 10.19 by 5.44 millimeters, cut as a smooth cabochon to emphasize its rich, opaque body color. The blue is vivid and saturated, a resonant tone that reads as both intense and entirely natural, without any enhancement. The polish is excellent, allowing the light to travel across the dome and reveal any character within the stone, including the occasional delicate flecks of pyrite that are often celebrated in Afghan lapis for the way they catch the eye like tiny constellations. The cushion outline makes it especially versatile for a variety of settings, allowing the blue field to dominate while providing soft, classic lines that suit both historically inspired designs and modern minimalist aesthetics.

For those who value legacy in their jewelry, this stone offers endless possibilities. Set in warm gold, the lapis will recall ancient royal ornaments and Byzantine mosaics, its blue glowing with a noble intensity. Set in cool white metal, it will offer a refined, contemporary contrast that highlights the purity of the color and the calm strength of its presence. Because it is opaque and richly colored, cabochon lapis works beautifully as a statement ring, a pendant that acts as a talisman, or a pair of cufflinks that nod to classic menswear. Lapis should be treated with care, kept away from hard knocks, and cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, avoiding harsh chemicals and steam, in order to preserve its surface and polish for generations.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we take pride in sourcing lapis that carries both provenance and integrity. This gem is natural, with no enhancement, and its origin in Afghanistan ties it directly to the storied deposits that defined lapis lazuli in the history of art and trade. If you are seeking a stone that speaks to continuity and craftsmanship, this cushion cabochon is an exceptional choice. We are happy to assist with custom mounting suggestions, certification details, and secure shipping, and we will ensure that this piece reaches you with the same care and respect with which it was selected.