Legend says was pried from the eye of an idol in India in the 1700s by a deserter from the French army. Photo: M. Nachinkin, Courtesy: RIA Novosti
The Orlov, a large rose-cut diamond, has been described as being shaped like half of a pigeon’s egg. It is the fourth in our Famous Diamonds series. (more…)
After years of hiding in the watery depths, mermaids, mythical half-human sea creatures, are surfacing everywhere – in a provocative photo shoot in the December 2013 issue of W ; on countless Starbucks’ cups (the mermaid is their corporate logo); in television shows like Mermaids and H20: Just Add Water; Pinterest, Etsy, and on bridesmaid accessories and wedding dresses. (more…)
A gemstone that conjures up images of heaven and earth, life and death, yin and yang, jade remains hugely popular in China, and all across the world. But did you know that jadeite is available in lavender (but not in pink?) (more…)
Jewelry connoisseurs have gone crazy for colored diamonds. And their appetites were practically insatiable in 2013.
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The story of the Cheapside Hoard has the twists and turns of the finest detective novels.
Between 1640 and 1666, nearly 500 items – including jewelry and loose gems – were placed in a wooden box and hidden in the cellar of a building near London’s St. Paul’s Cathedral. A large Colombian emerald pocket watch; a rose-cut sapphire and diamond cross pendant; an enameled gold ring set with a large table-cut diamond; a 2,000-year-old Egyptian agate cameo – these were just a few of the spectacular pieces secreted away.
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Of all the diamonds in our Famous Diamonds series, the Koh-i-noor has one of the most mysterious pasts. It is likely from the Golconda region of India, although it is not known exactly when it was found, resulting in centuries of debate about its early history.
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March’s aptly titled birthstone, aquamarine, grows in gorgeous crystals and sparkles like the ocean on a sun-kissed day. But do you know what to look for when shopping for aquamarine? (more…)
As a diamond consumer, you’ve probably heard the term “diamond treatment” or “treated diamond,” or perhaps “enhanced diamond” and wondered what that meant. A relatively small percentage of gem-quality diamonds are treated and they are treated for two reasons: to improve clarity or to alter color.
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Going once. Going twice. Going three times. Sold for $83.2 million.
That was the winning bid for the 59.6 carat Fancy Vivid Pink Dream in November 2013 – the most ever paid for a diamond. The amount was comparable to prices paid for paintings by some of the masters.
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The Cullinan II is a 317.40 carat (ct) cushion cut diamond and the centerpiece of the British Imperial State Crown. Do you know the history behind this beautiful diamond? (more…)
Judging by what celebrities wear on the red carpet, luxury cocktail rings continue to reign supreme. If you’re looking to bring some sparkle to your favorite Valentine, consider giving her (or him?) a ring with gems of grand proportions, one that’s a fashion statement and a work of art. But be warned: while these jumbo rings dazzle on the red carpet, only some may be suitable for everyday wear. (more…)
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