Lapis Lazuli – Mines in northeast Afghanistan continue to be a major source of lapis lazuli. Important amounts are also produced from mines west of Lake Baikal in Russia, and in the Andes mountains in Chile. Smaller quantities are mined in Pakistan, Italy, Mongolia, the United States, and Canada. It is a stone prized for its intense blue color. The name Lapis Lazuli comes from the Arabic word lazward, from which the word azure comes, which means blue. Ancient Romans used to call it "sapphires," which was subsequently applied to the blue variety of corundum we know today as sapphire. Measuring 2" in length when worn, these are largest Lapis earrings we offer. The actual stones measure 1"1/2 x 3/4" x 3/8". Set in solid sterling silver with genuine lapis. They hang on a silver wire hook. They have a moderate heavy feel, but are still easy to wear. Priced well for there size