Vintage Lapis Lazuli 18K Yellow Gold Earrings, Circa 1960s

Two pear-shaped lapis lazuli cabochons, a deep royal blue with fine flecks of natural pyrite scattered through the stone, sit bezel-set in 18K yellow gold. The gold border is worked in tight ribbed texture that widens toward the point of the teardrop, catching light in a continuous shimmer against the lapis's matte, opaque surface. The pyrite flecks read as a mark of quality in lapis lazuli, not an inclusion to work around; the stone's fine, saturated color and even flecking are what collectors look for in the material. Each earring measures 24 x 15mm, substantial enough to sit close to the ear without dangling, finished with a post and omega clip back for secure, comfortable wear. This bold, deep-set cabochon-in-gold styling is characteristic of 1960s jewelry, when colored stone was prized for saturation and scale over faceted sparkle. At 27 grams for the pair, these have real weight and presence on the ear. Excellent condition, no visible wear.