Oval Lapis Lazuli cabochon from Afghanistan, 20×14×6 mm. Deep ultramarine blue with natural golden pyrite inclusions and white calcite veins. Flat back for direct setting in a 925 silver bezel; a unique piece due to its unrepeatable color distribution.
Item Specifications
| Mineral |
Lapis Lazuli (metamorphic rock: lazurite, calcite, and pyrite) |
| Dimensions |
20×14×6 mm |
| Shape and Back |
Oval, flat polished back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
5–6 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting to protect the surface during daily wear |
| Origin |
Afghanistan (Hindu Kush mountains) |
| Treatment |
No detectable treatment |
| Item Type |
Unique piece |
About This Specific Piece
The blue of this specimen is dense and uniform, with reflections that deepen towards indigo in areas without pyrite. The metallic inclusions form irregular constellations that give movement to the surface, and the white calcite veins trace organic lines that are never repeated in two different pieces. The 20×14 mm format fits standard oval bezels for a statement ring or a central pendant with a 925 silver chain.
The 6 mm thickness offers a pronounced dome —visible in profile— that gives presence to the piece without being excessive for everyday jewelry. The selection of this specimen prioritized color saturation: deep and homogeneous blue, with a balanced proportion of pyrite and calcite.
How Lapis Lazuli is Formed
Lapis lazuli is not a single mineral but a metamorphic rock formed under high temperature and pressure, primarily from marble calcite in contact with magmatic intrusions. The coloring mineral is lazurite —a tectosilicate with sulfur— which can represent between 25 and 40% of the total volume. Pyrite is deposited in iron-rich hydrothermal fluids during the same metamorphic phase.
Recommended Mounting
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Bezel setting (925 silver) — the 20×14 mm format covers most standard oval bezels for statement rings or pendants. The 5–6 Mohs hardness means a closed bezel setting is the most recommended to protect the stone's edge from scratches.
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Pendant with silver mounting — the flat back allows for open bezel construction for a pendant or the adhesion of an articulated bail for a chain.
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Wire wrap — a valid alternative for jewelers working with wire; the polished surface and flat back facilitate secure fastening without marking the finish.
Lapis Lazuli in Lapidary Tradition
Lapis lazuli is one of the ornamental materials with the most historical documentation: it appears in grave goods from the Royal Cemetery of Ur (2600 BC) and in Tutankhamun's funeral mask.
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.
How to Recognize Genuine Lapis Lazuli
Authentic lapis lazuli shows a heterogeneous texture under magnification: areas of dark blue lazurite, white calcite veins or spots, and metallic pyrite flecks with a golden luster. The most common imitations —dyed howlite or jasper— have a too homogeneous color and lack real pyrite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the lapis lazuli in this piece undyed?
Yes. The blue is the natural color of lazurite, the chromophore mineral of this rock. No detectable treatment: declaration based on visual observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification. Pyrite inclusions and heterogeneous texture are consistent with untreated material.
What type of jewelry is this cabochon best suited for?
The 20×14 mm format is ideal for medium-sized statement rings or pendants with a 925 silver bezel. Due to its 5–6 Mohs hardness, we recommend a closed bezel setting to protect the stone's edge during daily wear.
Does it require special care?
Yes. Lapis lazuli is sensitive to prolonged moisture, abrasive soaps, and sudden temperature changes. Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam. More details in our jewelry care guide.
More about this mineral: properties and meaning of lapis lazuli. See also: jewelry cabochons · handmade rings.
