7.10 Ct. Lapis from Afghanistan

At The Natural Gemstone Company we are pleased to present a superb natural lapis lazuli specimen, an opaque 7.10 carat cushion shape tablet cut measuring 17.72 by 15.92 by 2.42 millimeters. This piece exhibits a vivid color intensity, a strong, saturated deep blue that reads immediately as the classic, highly desirable lapis tone. The tablet cut places the stone in a low profile face up presentation, maximizing the visible blue plane and allowing even distribution of light across the surface, while the excellent polish produces a clean, satiny luster that accentuates the gem face without unwanted glare. As supplied, the stone is untreated, no enhancement, and shows the natural mineralogical character that collectors and designers prize, making it a straightforward and reliable choice for quality conscious buyers who prefer natural, stable materials.

From a gemological perspective, lapis lazuli is a rock primarily composed of the mineral lazurite, with accessory minerals such as pyrite and sometimes calcite. This specimen displays fine, evenly distributed pyrite speckling which is visible in the photographs and in person, a feature that many connoisseurs consider desirable because the metallic inclusions provide a starry, complementary contrast to the rich blue ground. There is minimal calcite present based on visual inspection, which maintains the overall depth of color without the distracting white veining that lowers grade. We describe the clarity as opaque, consistent with lapis behavior, with uniform texture and no surface-reaching fractures or heavy pitting visible, contributing to its excellent polish retention and stable wearability. For grading reference, the primary parameters we use are color, texture, and absence of excessive calcite, and this stone ranks in the fine to very fine quality range for natural Afghan lapis.

Origin strongly influences lapis valuation, and this piece is from Afghanistan, a region with a long established reputation for producing some of the world’s finest lapis, notably from historic deposits in the Badakhshan area. Afghan lapis is often sought after for its deep ultramarine hues and balanced pyrite distribution, characteristics evident in this sample. Natural origin paired with no enhancement increases appeal to informed buyers because it means the color and appearance are intrinsic, not the result of dyeing, impregnation, or heat treatment. This has implications for both durability and long term value, since many treatments used in lower quality lapis can degrade or change with exposure to oils, cleaning agents, or wear. We can, upon request, provide further documentation or coordinate third party testing to verify natural origin and the absence of treatments for buyers who require independent certification.

In practical terms for jewelers and collectors, the cushion tablet format at 17.72 by 15.92 millimeters and a thickness of 2.42 millimeters yields a versatile component suitable for a bold pendant, an elegant brooch, or a statement ring when set with a protective bezel or a low-profile gallery. Because lapis has a Mohs hardness around 5 to 5.5 and is opaque with a relatively low fracture toughness, we recommend settings that protect the edges and minimize exposure to harsh knocks, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaning. Warm metals such as yellow or rose gold traditionally complement the deep blue and the golden pyrite, while a darkened sterling silver or fine platinum bezel can create a modern, graphic look. For everyday care, gentle hand cleaning with mild soap and lukewarm water, avoiding prolonged soaking and chemical cleaners, will preserve surface polish and color. At The Natural Gemstone Company we are happy to advise on custom mounting options and to assist with secure shipping and insurance for this rare, untreated Afghan lapis lazuli, as well as to answer any questions regarding provenance, lapidary considerations, or comparative market value for collectors and designers.