9.09 Ct. Cabochon Lapis from Afghanistan

This exquisite single stone from The Natural Gemstone Company is a 9.09 carat, opaque blue lapis in a cushion shape, with exact dimensions of 11.78 x 11.56 x 8.96 mm, finished in a sugar loaf cut. It presents a vivid color intensity and an excellent polish, and it is entirely natural with no enhancement. Originating from Afghanistan, this lapis carries the classic deep ultramarine tones collectors prize, while its sugar loaf shaping preserves the gem s natural body and presents color in a rich, domed surface that refracts light softly, unlike flat or heavily faceted treatments. Compared to many lapis options on the market which are often dyed, stabilized, or assembled from lower grade material to achieve an even tone, this piece is pure old world lapis, unaltered, and honestly represented, making it superior in authenticity and long term value.

When comparing this piece to other lapis stones and common market alternatives, several practical advantages become clear. Many lapis offerings are sourced from secondary deposits or treated to mask pale spots and to enhance uniformity. Those stones can lose value as their treatments degrade or become detectable, and they rarely display the same depth of character. This Afghan cushion lapis, by contrast, shows natural color zoning and the kind of mineral inclusions that lapis aficionados seek, subtle pyrite speckling that plays against the ultramarine without overwhelming it, and a surface polish that brings out velvet like saturation. The sugar loaf cut is a traditional, superior choice for lapis because it retains maximum weight while emphasizing color intensity at the crown, unlike thinly cut cabochons which can look washed out, or heavily faceted stones which can break up the solid, meditative color lapis is known for. In practical jewelry terms, this stone s 11.78 x 11.56 x 8.96 mm proportions work beautifully for a statement ring or a pendant bezel, offering presence without excessive bulk, and a 9.09 carat weight that balances durability with a wearable scale.

Value and uniqueness are crucial when placing a stone in a fine jewelry setting or an investment collection, and here this lapis stands apart. Afghan lapis is widely regarded as the gold standard for deep, saturated blues, often preferred over material from other sources such as Chile or Russia that can present paler or more speckled material. The fact that this gem is unenhanced elevates its desirability, because unmodified lapis is rarer on the market than many buyers assume, and untreated material preserves provenance and resale value. Compared to synthetic or composite alternatives, this stone offers natural variation and tactile depth no imitation can truly replicate, and compared to lower grade lapis sold by weight alone, the exceptional polish and careful sugar loaf shaping deliver a finished appearance that will read as high quality immediately to any jeweler or collector. For designers, the stone s clean dome and even weight distribution simplify setting, and for buyers focused on longevity and authenticity, no enhancement means fewer concerns about fading, bleaching, or treatment disclosures that complicate future transactions.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we prioritize genuine material and transparent information, and this piece exemplifies that commitment, a 9.09 carat Afghan lapis cushion, 11.78 x 11.56 x 8.96 mm, sugar loaf cut, vivid color intensity, excellent polish, no enhancement. If you are comparing options in this category, consider how many stones claim deep color but rely on dye, or how many are cut thin to inflate apparent color at the expense of heft and durability. This lapis avoids those compromises, offering a rich, natural presentation that performs well in both bespoke fine jewelry and curated collections. For care, avoid prolonged exposure to acids or harsh cleaners, and clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap and water, because preserving the polish and the natural surface is the best way to maintain its value. If you would like, I can provide matching mounting recommendations, appraisal guidance, or additional photos under different lighting to help you visualize how this superb Afghan lapis will look in your intended setting.