For purposes of establishing the value of various grades of lapis lazuli, it is first necessary to distinguish between those qualities that are commercially available and those that can be described as exceptional and difficult to obtain. Exceptional qualities are logically subdivided into three classifications, as follows (all prices given are wholesale per stone values based on 13 x 18 millimeter cabochons):
1st Quality
Stones in this category are an intense, slightly dark violetish blue. They are evenly colored, entirely free of calcite or pyrite and have a superior polish. Prices range from $200 to $480 per stone. (Note: Larger stones may be sold by the carat for as much as $40 per carat.)
2nd Quality
Cabochons of second quality have the same qualifications as those listed above, except that the color is either pure blue or violet-blue. Prices range from $120 to $400 per stone.
3rd Quality
The color and other attributes of these stones are equal to those of the first or second type, but they are characterized by an attractive, even distribution of small pyrite crystals over the entire surface. Prices range from $40 to $160 per stone.
Stones that are normally available in commercial quantity contain varying amounts of pyrite and/or calcite; of these, calcite is the least desirable. In addition, the color is often low in intensity and unevenly distributed and the polish inferior. Prices range from as little as $1 to $40 per stone. The least expensive are those containing a high percentage of large white areas. Those containing little pyrite and almost no calcite are the most expensive in this group.
Buying Tips
For may years a prominent man in the jewelry industry has worn a handsome ring set with lapis. It has been a source of constant pleasure for him, for he enjoys both its beauty of color and the conversations about it initiated by friends and strangers alike.
These are among the dividends that accrue to wearers of lovely stone-set jewelry. Although women are interested in most of the colored stones, and any person can wear most of them, there are fewer gemstones that are particularly suitable for most men. Lapis is an excellent stone for men jewelry, whether for cufflinks, rings, tie clips or other items.
Although lapis was arbitrarily removed from the official birthstone list, it is properly considered a birthstone for December with better factual basis than for many of the other birthstones. However, this is seldom of any importance in selling lapis jewelry (but it may be significant if his wife is obtaining the jewelry for him as a gift).
There is little enough lapis offered for sate today that a good case may be made for choosing it for a man who is regarded as a leader in the community. That you consider him a leader and thus recommend an unusual and pace-setting piece of jewelry is flattering to him and/or his loved ones. Thus, those who enjoy the lovely intense blue color of lapis when it is pointed out to them may be led to recognize the other pleasures its ownership brings. Since even the best qualities are comparatively inexpensive, a good selection of lapis jewelry can enhance the attractiveness and eye appeal of any showcase.
