A magnificent Renaissance lapis lazuli carving of Cosimo I de’ Medici. Based on a portrait-medallion, it was first documented to be in the Medici inventory in 1588. Part of the Milton Weil collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art, New York.

The finest Lapis Lazuli has always been found in the mountains of Afghanistan. Supplies of this material has been very scarce over the last decade due to the conflict in this area. I have 1 kilo of top grade Lapis Lazuli that was bought for me by a customer who worked in the country for a few years.

Top Grade Afghanistan Lapis Lazuli

My customer bought this Lapis Lazuli directly from Afghani gem merchants in Kabul. I use this selected Lapis for gemstone carving and Family Crest Rings.

Lapis Lazuli Family crest Ring

An example of a gold signet ring set with a oval Lapis Lazuli carved with a family crest, reversed for sealing.

Lapis Lazuli Angelfish Pendant

I enjoyed creating this Angelfish pendant. I carved this using the very best select grade of Lapis Lazuli from Afghanistan.

Double sided Lapis Lazuli Celtic Carving

This is a personal favourite. I carved this Lapis Lazuli with a Celtic love knot design on both sides of the stone.

Antique Cameo Family crests Lapis Lazuli signet rings