A restrung Western Asiatic lapis lazuli necklace of alternating small rectangular beads, pointed beads with decorative incisions, hexagonal beads and large rectangular beads with zig-zagging sides. The centrepiece is rectangular bead with white geometric incisions. 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: 22cm half-length with folded (beaded section) and 36.5cm half-length (including the string). Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.