Lajward has been prized across Asia for centuries, and many buyers ask first whether the blue is natural. Lapis lazuli is sometimes dyed or waxed to even out its colour, so a short question to the seller is always sensible. Our answer for this stone comes on request at +92 308 887 3888.

How big is it?

11.7 carats, a mid-to-large piece for lapis. It costs Rs. 4,390, about Rs. 375 per carat, under reference GSN-LL-15.

Will it scratch?

Lapis rates 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, so yes, easily if mistreated. It is better as a pendant or in earrings than in a ring.

How should I look after it?

Wipe it with a damp cloth, avoid soaking, and keep perfume away.

The rest of the range is in the lapis lazuli category.

Orders go out by insured courier, and on Cash on Delivery you can open the package and inspect before paying. Pair it with a plain silver chain so the blue remains the focus, and keep it away from salt water and cleaning sprays.

Cash on Delivery is available across Pakistan, so you inspect the stone before paying, and returns are accepted within 7 days of delivery. Before you choose, read our lapis lazuli guide.

This particular stone

This listing is one natural lapis lazuli, known in Urdu as Lajward, with a weight of 11.7 Carat. Its price is Rs. 4,390 — roughly Rs. 375 for each carat. Treatment: treatment not tested. Quote reference GSN-LL-15 when you message us about it. The photographs show this exact stone, so what arrives at your door is the piece you chose on screen.

From six carats up a stone becomes the centre of attention. It wants a broader shank or a secure claw setting and suits an occasion ring, a signet or a centre pendant. Clean natural material of this size turns up far less often, and the per-carat rate reflects that.

On the Mohs scale lapis lazuli rates 5 to 6. That makes it soft for a gemstone, better suited to pendants, earrings and rings for special occasions than to a daily ring. Keep it away from perfume, cleaning products, steam and ultrasonic cleaners, and polish it with a dry, soft cloth after wear.

Whoever you buy lapis lazuli from, make sure of three things: the stone is natural rather than lab-grown, glass or glass-filled; any treatment is stated in writing; and the weight quoted is the weight of the finished stone. We check every lapis lazuli for those three points before it is listed, a certificate is available on request, and because you pay on delivery you can look at the stone — or have it tested — before any money changes hands.

We sell natural stones only and inspect each one before it is listed. Treatment for this stone: Treatment not tested. Certificate available on request. As general background (not a statement about this stone): Lapis lazuli (lajward) is sometimes dyed or waxed to even out its blue. Ask us on WhatsApp and we will tell you what we know about this exact stone; independent lab testing is available on request.

A certificate of authenticity is available on request for this stone, and independent laboratory testing can be arranged. Because you pay on delivery, you can also take the stone to a lab of your choice within the 7-day return window. Read more on our authenticity page.