Lapis Lazuli Marquise Cabochons

Marquise Afghan lapis lazuli cabochon with intense ultramarine blue, golden pyrite inclusions (20-30%) and white calcite veins (<15%). Three elongated formats: 24×9 mm, 23×6 mm and 31×9 mm. Flat back for setting. Selected at a wholesale lapidary market.

Item details

This specific piece

The marquise shape elongates the cabochon and accentuates the pyrite inclusions against the deep blue background. The length/width ratio of 2.5–5:1 is ideal for vertical pendants and baguette-style earrings. AAA grade blue: intense and uniform, without grey areas or dominant calcite.

Lapis lazuli in the history of jewelry

Afghan lapis lazuli from Badakhshan — active for over 6,000 years — was the source of the ultramarine blue pigment that colored the skies of Vermeer and the mantles of Renaissance Madonnas, before chemical synthesis replaced it in the 19th century. In ancient Egypt, it was used in gold inlays on funerary masks and royal pectorals. In lapidary tradition, lapis lazuli is associated with wisdom, mental clarity and the power of words (pharaoh's stone, philosopher's stone).

The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.

What setting it works for

• Vertical pendant in 925 silver — the long axis of the marquise draws the eye downwards; a thin bezel preserves the impact of the blue without over-framing.
• Asymmetrical or pair earrings — smaller formats (23-24 mm) work as a drop or shuttle; the large one (31 mm) as a centerpiece.
• Wire wrap — an alternative for those who work with wire setting; the flat profile facilitates side wrapping.

How to recognize genuine Afghan lapis lazuli

AAA grade lapis lazuli exhibits a uniform deep blue with random golden pyrite flecks and white calcite veins less than 15%. Dyed blue howlite — a frequent imitation — shows characteristic grey howlite veins under magnification, without the metallic luster of pyrite. Dyed blue jasper has a finer grain and lacks pyrite. Authentic lapis lazuli does not release a plastic smell when exposed to flame.

Frequently asked questions

Is it lapis lazuli from Afghanistan?

Yes. Material selected in a wholesale lapidary market with a declaration of origin from Afghanistan, Badakhshan province, the most historically renowned producing region for this mineral.

Is the blue dyed?

Untreated. The ultramarine blue is natural, originating from lazurite — an aluminosilicate from the sodalite group — which makes up 30-60% of the rock. Pyrite and calcite are natural accompanying minerals, not added.

What setting is the marquise format suitable for?

The thin profile (2-4 mm) facilitates low-profile settings. We recommend a closed bezel setting due to the 5-5.5 Mohs hardness, especially for rings. For pendants and earrings, the risk of impact is lower, and a semi-open bezel or claw setting can be used.

Why does the distribution of pyrite vary between pieces?

Pyrite crystallized in the same hydrothermal fluid as lapis lazuli, but at different points and times in the process. The distribution, size, and density of the golden flecks are intrinsic to each fragment and constitute the unique hallmark of the piece.

Are the dimensions exact?

The declared formats (24×9, 23×6, 31×9 mm) are nominal dimensions. The dimensional tolerance of the cabochon is ±0.5 mm in any dimension.

How to care for lapis lazuli?

Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Avoid acidic or alkaline soaps, saline solutions, and submersion. Store away from harder minerals. More information at jewelry care.

See also: properties of lapis lazuli · all cabochons · silver pendants.