This estate lapis lazuli necklace with gold beads and a gold clasp is crafted in 18k yellow gold, weighs 144.3g and measures l6 inches long, 21mm wide and 21mm deep. Designed as a choker necklace to be worn high around the neck, this alluring estate necklace is composed of 14 strands of lapis lazuli beads graded a delightful 'cobalt-blue' color and measuring 3 to 5mm in diameter. Strung on matching color silk and designed as a 'twisted rope' necklace, these vivid-colored strands of lapis lazuli are enhanced by a number of 47 gold beads measuring 4mm in diameter, creating a shiny and color contrasting effect. This alluring estate necklace features a slide-in clasp and slot veiled by an ornate 18k gold ribbon-bow themed profile enhanced by immaculate chase work and decoratively pierced openwork underside.
The opaque, deep blue gemstone lapis lazuli is amongst the oldest semi-precious stones to have been used for and worn as jewelry. Its history dates back to excavations in the antique cultural centers around the Mediterranean, during which archeologists discovered samples of jewelry crafted with lapis lazuli, left in tombs to accompany the deceased into the hereafter. According to historians, this blue-color gemstone was traded in Egypt, Persia, Greece and Rome as early as four thousand years B.C, cherished as a stone with magical powers or even worshiped as a holy stone. Lapis lazuli was first introduced to Europe by Alexander the Great in the form of seals, rings or scarabs, under the name 'ultramarine', meaning 'from beyond the seas'. It was under this name that the 'Grand Old Masters' began using pulverized lapis lazuli as the deepest blue color available for their master-paintings. By adding this powder to a mixture of binding ingredients, the marble-like gemstone would turn into bright-blue paint most suitable for watercolors, tempera and oil paintings. The blue pigment derived from lapis lazuli is still applied in the restoration of historical buildings and cathedrals. Lapis lazuli is an opaque semi precious gem stone consisting mainly of diopside and lasurite. In the unpolished form, it appears dark blue, often with golden inclusions and white veins from marble. Contrary to former theories, the twinkling inclusions which lend this stone the attractive appeal of a sky full of stars are not gold but 'pyrite'. Irrespective of this, however, its enchanting color and golden light reflections have been fascinating men and women for thousands of years!
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