9.71 Ct. Cabochon Lapis from Afghanistan

This listing by The Natural Gemstone Company presents a single, attractive opaque blue lapis, weighing 9.71 carats, fashioned in a cushion form with a sugar loaf cut. The piece measures 11.97 by 11.93 by 9.02 millimeters, and it displays vivid color intensity with an excellent polish. There has been no enhancement applied, and the stone is sourced from Afghanistan. These concise facts orient an educated buyer to the primary identifiers that determine lapis value, namely weight, dimensions, cut type, natural treatment status, color saturation, and provenance, all of which are favorable in this specimen.

Color is the chief driver of value for lapis lazuli, and this example shows a deep, saturated blue that approaches the ideal field color sought by connoisseurs, with vivid intensity that reads strongly under both daylight and jeweler lighting. Lapis is graded for color uniformity, saturation, and the presence or absence of lighter calcite veining, which can dilute the perceived blue. This cabochon is opaque as is typical for natural lapis, and the photographs and inspection show modest matrix and flecking, including small metallic gold specks consistent with pyrite inclusions that are often prized as natural identifiers of Afghanistan lapis. The presence of pyrite can enhance aesthetic interest when it is sparingly distributed, whereas large areas of calcite or uneven gray matrix reduce grade. For this stone the balance favors the blue ground color, with matrix and pyrite remaining secondary visual elements that add character without compromising the overall intensity.

The sugar loaf cut and cushion outline are traditional treatments for lapis that emphasize color and surface sheen rather than internal transparency, making them ideal for opaque materials. The dome height from the sugar loaf style gives a strong play of light across the surface, and the excellent polish increases perceived depth and richness of color while minimizing surface texture. From a lapidary perspective these proportions are well chosen for a roughly twelve millimeter piece weighing just under ten carats, which makes the stone suitable for a range of fine jewelry settings, including signet rings, solitaire pendants, or bespoke cufflinks. Hardness and durability considerations are also relevant for the informed buyer, as lapis has moderate hardness and benefits from protective settings when used in rings that will see frequent wear. The lack of enhancement, such as dyeing or resin stabilization, is a key attribute for buyers focused on natural material integrity, and the Afghan origin is significant because Afghanistan is a historical and contemporarily important source of high quality lapis with deep blue material and characteristic pyrite.

Clarity for lapis does not follow the same nomenclature as for transparent gemstones, nevertheless an assessment of inclusions, grain structure, and surface quality is essential. This sample displays even grain texture and a polished surface free of significant pits or cleavage planes, which supports its classification as an excellent cabochon. Authentication for lapis typically involves visual inspection, refractive index checks when appropriate, and sometimes spectroscopy to distinguish natural lapis from treated or synthetic substitutes. Buyers seeking independent verification can request laboratory testing, and The Natural Gemstone Company can assist with documentation and high resolution imaging on request. In terms of market positioning this lapis is attractive to collectors and designers who prioritize natural, untreated material from a reputable source, and it carries the added value of provenance, consistent color saturation, and an engaging sugar loaf form. For those interested in acquisition, additional images, measurements, and advice on setting or matching stones for paired designs are available from our team, and we welcome inquiries about certification, shipping, and custom mounting options.