Multi-Stone Lapis Necklace and Earrings

Wear this Multi-Stone Lapis Necklace and Earrings and accessorize, like the sea goddess Amphite, in jewels evocative of tropical lagoons. The Multi-Stone Lapis Necklace is a stunning strand of 10 to 15mm freeform lapis nuggets and 8mm amethyst daisy spacers from which is suspended a dramatic abalone shell pendant with 6mm faceted amethyst accent. The coordinating Multi-Stone Lapis Pierced Earrings dangle 10mm lapis nuggets and amethyst daisy spacers. Sterling silver Bali toggle clasp and ear wires. Assembled in the USA. Natural variations ensure each will be one of a kind.

Specify:
Multi-Stone Lapis Necklace $325.00 (Members $292.50)
Multi-Stone Lapis Pierced Earrings $60.00 (Members $54.00)

Museum Provenance

This item is inspired by lapis gems and jewelry in our Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems and Minerals, National Museum of Natural History. Lapis lazuli is a semiprecious stone valued for its deep blue color. In ancient times, the Egyptians used lapis lazuli for cosmetic purposes and as paint. The Persians believed the heavens owed their blue color to a massive slab of lapis upon which the earth rested. Lapis, a sacred stone with mystical powers, was buried with the dead to protect and guide them in the afterlife. Today, the popularity of lapis lazuli continues. Artisans, as in ancient times, create endless objets d’art, cutting and sculpting lapis for items of adornment, intricate pieces of jewelry and prized objects.

Every Smithsonian purchase will arrive with a museum provenance card explaining how it is adapted from or inspired by an object or objects in our collection.