A 23.75 carat lajward is big enough to deserve a proper setting, and there are a few ways to approach it. As a pendant in silver or gold it can hang freely, so its strong blue shows against clothing. A ring is possible, but at this size it would sit high, and with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale it would need a bezel to protect the edges.

If you would like a custom silver ring setting, we can talk it through on WhatsApp at +92 308 887 3888. Quote GSN-LL-31 so we know which stone you mean. Whatever the metal, keep perfume and hairspray off the stone, and put it on last when you dress.

The stone itself

It comes from Afghanistan, the long-standing source of fine lapis. The price is Rs. 8,930, about Rs. 376 per carat. Lapis is sometimes dyed or waxed in the trade, so ask us what we know about this piece before deciding; independent testing can be arranged. Other sizes sit in the lapis lazuli range.

Order with Cash on Delivery anywhere in Pakistan: open the parcel, check the stone, then pay. If it is not right for you, you have 7 days to return it. 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 23.75 Carat. Its price is Rs. 8,930 — roughly Rs. 376 for each carat. Origin: Afghanistan. Treatment: treatment not tested. Quote reference GSN-LL-31 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.

Above twelve carats you are into collector territory. Pieces this heavy are usually set as pendants or kept loose, and they are prized for the size of rough they came from. If you do set it, choose a bezel or a heavy claw to protect the edges.

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.