Discover How Jaipur Artisans Crafted Chopard's 6,225-Carat Zambian Emerald into Exquisite Jewels.

Imagine a colossal emerald, weighing an astonishing 6,225 carats, hidden beneath the earth in Zambia for millions of years. This incredible gemstone finally made its dazzling debut at Paris Fashion Week in March, captivating every eye that saw it.

Chopard, the iconic Geneva-based jewelry and watchmaker, envisioned transforming this enormous emerald into a magnificent collection of jewels. Rather than selecting traditional gem-cutting centers like Antwerp or Israel, Chopard invited master gemstone cutters from Jaipur, India, to their prestigious Swiss workshop. Why Jaipur? Because India doesn't just dominate diamond cutting—today, polishing about 90% of the world's diamonds—but also excels in the intricate art of shaping colored gemstones.

Jaipur’s Master Gem Cutters: A Blend of Tradition and Spirituality

More than just expertise, Jaipur's artisans brought centuries-old craftsmanship, cultural traditions, and even spiritual rituals to Geneva. Caroline Scheufele, Chopard's artistic director, recalls how the Indian craftsmen preferred sitting cross-legged on the floor, carefully positioned in specific directions, cutting gems only at spiritually favorable times. "Certain days and certain hours simply don’t work. It's very spiritual," Scheufele warmly shares, adding, "It was an unforgettable discovery for our entire atelier."

After nearly a year of meticulous craftsmanship, each cut was delicately made to enhance brilliance and maintain the emerald’s vibrant color. The massive stone, affectionately named "Insofu" (elephant in Zambia's local Bemba language due to its trunk-like shape), was transformed into 850 carats of stunning emerald jewels. Chopard has designed these precious stones into a mesmerizing collection, including earrings, necklaces, rings, a bracelet, and even a remarkable high jewelry watch.

The Elephant Pendant: Symbolism Meets Sustainability

One of the most enchanting pieces is an elephant-shaped pendant crafted from the Insofu emerald itself, symbolizing the gem’s majestic origin and shape. This beautiful collection also supports an important cause, with Chopard partnering with the UK charity Elephant Family to protect endangered Asian elephants.

This extraordinary collaboration emphasizes how Jaipur's gemstone craftsmanship, rich heritage, and mystical charm redefine global luxury. It infuses high jewelry with compelling stories, underscoring the truth that every spectacular jewel holds not just beauty but also a remarkable human history and heartfelt craftsmanship.

 

Lost & Found: Jewels Worth £1 Million Await Reunification with Owners

London Police Recover Stolen Treasures, Including a WWI Rolex and Gold Heirlooms

Imagine losing precious family heirlooms, jewels that carry memories, heritage, and history. In a heartwarming twist, London's Metropolitan Police recently recovered a collection of stolen jewels and valuables worth over £1 million, and they're eager to reunite them with their rightful owners.

These treasures, stolen from London's South Asian community in Hounslow between 2023 and 2024, include poignant items such as a World War One officer's Rolex watch, a delicate gold locket containing treasured family photographs, intricately engraved pocket watches, exquisite gemstone-encrusted gold necklaces, and even an elegant gold hairpin.

A Community's Lost Memories Restored

Each recovered piece holds a deeply personal story, symbolizing family legacies, love, and history. The Met Police have issued an appeal, sharing detailed images of the recovered items, hoping someone recognizes their cherished jewels. It’s an emotional reminder of how profoundly personal jewelry can be more than mere adornments; these pieces embody life's precious moments and memories.

If you or anyone you know has been affected, the Metropolitan Police encourages you to contact them to reclaim these cherished heirlooms. 

Paris Unveils Hidden Jewels: An Exhibition of Stunning Jewelry Design Drawings

Discover the Artistic Secrets Behind Iconic French Jewelry at Petit Palais

Hidden away in the archives of the Petit Palais in Paris is an extraordinary treasure trove: thousands of jewelry design drawings, rarely seen, with many exhibited for the very first time in France. From Tuesday through July 20, this remarkable exhibition, "Jewelry Designs: Secrets of the Creation," offers a unique glimpse into the artistic genius behind iconic French jewelry.

Over 350 items, including more than 200 captivating drawings by legendary designers like René Lalique, Charles Jacqueau, and Georges Fouquet, are displayed. These drawings, spanning from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century, beautifully illustrate the creative journey, from initial inspirations drawn from nature and cultural motifs to the intricate design execution process.

Art and Craftsmanship: From Sketch to Masterpiece

One highlight is the exquisite Sycamore Pendant, created between 1905 and 1910 by Georges Fouquet. The pendant, adorned with diamonds, peridots, and a baroque pearl, is exhibited alongside its original drawing, bringing to life the fascinating interplay between designer and artisan.

The exhibition also celebrates the remarkable artistic skills involved in jewelry drawings, showcasing techniques that breathe vibrancy and depth into designs. Some designers cleverly used translucent paper or unconventional lighting sources to infuse life into their sketches, making them artworks in their own right.

Curator Clara Roca captures the show's essence beautifully: "We can tell every step of a jewelry designer’s process, and that's exactly what we're presenting." For art enthusiasts, jewelry lovers, and anyone captivated by the magic of creation, this exhibition offers a rare window into the timeless allure of jewelry design.

Why Jewelry Will Always Captivate Our Hearts

The world of jewelry is endlessly fascinating. Even after more than 30 years immersed in this industry, my passion for jewelry only grows. From the intricate artistry of nature-inspired designs to the skills of talented artisans; from the intricacies of sales, marketing, regulations, and the constant push for improvement, to the countless people worldwide who dedicate their lives to this craft—every facet is captivating. But the real magic lies with you, the wearer. Whether buying a piece for yourself or gifting one, your stories become forever intertwined with those of the stones, designers, and jewelers. Jewelry is art, but it only truly shines when touched by emotion. After all, as I always say: Jewelry is art, but valuable only when emotion is added.

 

X

Esther

 

 

Chopard, Emerald

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