7.37 Ct. Lapis from Afghanistan

This cushion shaped blue lapis is a substantial and elegant example of a classic ornamental stone, weighing 7.37 carat, and measuring 16.06 x 14.01 x 2.58 mm, with a tablet cutting style and a tablet face that creates a broad, even surface, and an excellent polish that gives the stone a refined hand finished look. The stone is opaque, and the deep blue surface reads as a rich, uniform field that is ideal for a variety of jewelry treatments, the color intensity is not applicable in the usual graded sense because this lapis presents as a solid opaque tablet rather than a faceted gem, and importantly the piece is natural with no enhancement, sourced from Afghanistan where some of the most prized lapis deposits are found. The combination of size, weight, and flat tablet profile makes this piece exceptional for designs that require a stable, low profile stone that still reads large visually, and the cushion outline softens the geometry so that the lapis will sit comfortably in settings that range from contemporary to classical.

When compared to other lapis options on the market, this tablet cut cushion lapis stands out for several reasons, first the origin from Afghanistan commands attention given the historical and qualitative association collectors and designers make with Afghan lapis, second the no enhancement status lifts questions that often arise with treated or dyed stones, and third the tablet cut with excellent polish presents surface continuity and color depth that many smaller or irregular cabochons fail to match. Many lapis offerings are thin slices, composite assembled pieces, or heavily stabilized and dyed cabochons, those options may mimic color but they do not offer the same authenticity, wearability, and long term stability as a solid natural piece, similarly faceted gemstones with similar color intensity, such as sapphires, will be much harder, more expensive, and will read differently visually because of light transmission, this lapis provides a bold color statement at a fraction of the cost of corundum, while retaining a historical, artisanal character that mass produced imitations cannot reproduce. For designers and buyers seeking genuine materials, the combination of a generous 16 by 14 millimeter tablet surface, a trusted origin, and no enhancement means less risk for resale, appraisal, and long term satisfaction, the excellent polish reduces the need for heavy metal shielding in settings, and the flat profile makes it amenable to secure mounting styles that protect the stone while showcasing its saturated blue field.

This piece is highly adaptable to custom jewelry, its tablet cut and moderate thickness of 2.58 mm invite creative approaches, as a center for a signet or statement ring the cushion tablet will sit flush against the finger, it can be set in a low bezel for a classic, durable look, or encircled by a thin milgrain bezel for a vintage touch. For pendants a simple bezel with a tapered bail will allow the lapis to hang with a modern planar aesthetic, while a halo of micro pavé accent stones or a delicate rope setting can elevate the lapis into a bridal or heirloom style. The flat tablet surface is ideal for inlay work in cuff bracelets, belt buckles, or mixed metal mosaics, and it also lends itself to doublet style constructions where the lapis is paired with a thin metal back for contrast and stability, for men who prefer subtle luxury the stone adapts well to cufflinks and tie pins, and for designers who favor layering the tablet can be set into stackable pendants or combined with smaller accent stones such as diamonds, turquoise, or mother of pearl to create color balanced compositions. Metal choices will change the character of the lapis, warm yellow gold will bring out any golden pyrite highlights and create a classical effect, white metals will make the blue feel brighter and more contemporary, and rose gold will introduce a fashion forward contrast that is currently popular, sterling silver remains a natural companion for lapis because of the historical pairing and the affordability for larger statement pieces.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we curate pieces like this 7.37 carat Afghan cushion tablet lapis for their design flexibility, authenticity, and enduring style, our gem specialists can advise on compatible settings, proportions for bezel or prong retention, and practical mounting advice to protect the stone while maximizing its visual impact. If you are designing a single bespoke piece or planning a small collection, this lapis offers a rare combination of scale, untreated origin, and a flat, highly polished tablet surface that simplifies fabrication and expands creative options. Contact The Natural Gemstone Company to discuss custom settings, to request high resolution images or CAD friendly measurements, and to explore how this natural tablet lapis can become the defining element in your next jewelry creation.