A restrung Western Asiatic lapis lazuli necklace composed of small cylindrical beads varying in shades of dark blue. The deep blue semi-precious stone is banded with contrasting white and golden brown striations, creating a polychrome effect. At the centre of the necklace is a flat, rhomboid bead that acts as a pendant. Please note this necklace is unclasped and threaded on string. Lapis lazuli was and still is highly regarded in Mesopotamia and the Near East. Ancient rulers and members of the elite showed their high esteem for the stone by often burying themselves with ornaments made partially or entirely from this semi-precious stone. Even before their adoration for this beautiful vibrant stone, its popularity and mining occurred firstly in the Neolithic period, when it was first excavated in the Near East and exported to the Mediterranean area of South Asia. Measurements (circa): Beaded length 29.5cm; Length 56cm Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection (owner now deceased), 1970-2010.