A restrung Western Asiatic lapis lazuli necklace of alternating small tubular beads, cylindrical beads and large oval beads. The deep blue semi-precious stone is banded with contrasting white and golden brown striations, creating a polychrome effect. Please note this necklace is unclasped and threaded on string. Lapis lazuli stone was highly regarded in Mesopotamia and the Near East in general. Rulers and members of the elite had the custom of being buried with ornaments made partly or entirely of this semi-precious stone, originally from Afghanistan. The first use of this beautiful, vibrant rich blue stone dates back to the Neolithic, when it was first mined in Afghanistan and exported to the Mediterranean area and South Asia. Measurements: 20.5cm half-length with folded (beaded section) and 30cm half-length (including the string). Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.