A restrung Western Asiatic necklace composed of small cylindrical lapis lazuli beads, each of uniform size and shape, interspersed with slightly larger, rounded beads. A flat, roughly inverted heart-shaped bead with rounded edges forms a pendant at the centre of a necklace. The blue semi-precious stone presents a range of deep shades, creating an attractive multi-chrome effect. Please note this necklace is unclasped and threaded on string. 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 area and South Asia. Measurements: (circa) Half Length 21.8cm when folded; beaded half length 20.3cm. Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.