A restrung Western Asiatic lapis lazuli beaded necklace. The necklace is composed of roughly-cut lapis lazuli beads which have been left unpolished, providing each bead with its own unique irregular shape. The beads gradually increase in size, ending with the largest stones at the centre of the necklace. Each bead displays natural white striations and pyrite inclusions creating a variety of unique patterns. The necklace has been restrung on modern string and features two metal hoops at the end, and a hook which connects them. Before the hoop is a patterned, conical metal cap which further enriches the necklace. Lapis lazuli stone was highly regarded in the ancient Near East. It was customary for rulers and members of the elite to be buried with ornaments made partly or entirely of this semi-precious stone. The first use of this beautiful, vibrant rich blue stone dates back to the Neolithic, when it was first mined and exported to the Mediterranean and South Asia. Measurements: (circa) Full-length: 49.6 cm Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.