“You are a whispering diamond, turning in the sun, articulating the one thing the sky wants to say, in a million different ways.”
– Curtis Tyrone Jones, Mirrors Of The Sun
Yes, there is something intrinsically inspiring about diamonds, without so much as a breath, they embody everything that is beautiful and aspirational. They somehow manage to express our deepest emotions and mirror our passions in a way that nothing else can. For this, we give humble thanks to the master jewellers who carve away at the ordinary to create the extraordinary.
A gift of jewellery to someone we love has been an expression of adoration for centuries, with careful thought behind the selection of the stones, the setting and the design. Diamonds, in particular, are chosen as symbols of everlasting love and commitment.
While giving and receiving these sparkling treasures are special moments that stand alone, there are those who desire to look a little deeper.
What goes into making these rare and inspiring works of art? How do master jewellers design and craft the exceptional gems and metals into such ethereal and desirable works of art?
If your fascination with diamonds and precious gems reaches past owning a beautiful piece of jewellery, then we have something truly special to share with you.
The Craftsmanship of a Master Jeweller
While there is great pleasure to be had in viewing magnificent fine jewels, we understand that this merely scratches the surface when there is so much more to uncover through the journey of their creation.
The history and origin of these dazzling jewels along with the painstaking work required to create something truly magical is a different story entirely, and one which most are not privy to.
We’d like to take you behind the scenes to experience first-hand the inner workings, the sights, sounds and focused dedication behind the creation of some of the world’s rarest pieces.
It’s within this arena that London really shines.
The House of Garrard
The history of the House of Garrard is intrinsically woven into London’s narrative and can be traced all the way back to a small store in London’s West End in 1721.
George Wicks, a master silversmith at the time, received his first royal commission from the Prince of Wales in 1735 which began a relationship allowing Garrard to serve each successive generation of royals until today.
Among the noteworthy pieces produced by this now iconic jeweller was the request for the re-cutting of the Koh-I-Noor in 1852 by the Duke of Wellington. The Koh-I-Noor, also known as The Mountain of Light, is one of the largest cut diamonds in the world, originally weighing 186 carats. It took thirty-eight taxing days to recut the diamond into a 105.6-carat oval brilliant. History tells us that the young Maharaj Duleep Singh, the diamond’s last non-British owner, was rendered speechless when shown the magnificent re-cut stone.
Did you know that this gem was only worn by female members of the royal family as it was believed to bring bad luck to the men?
A fascinating history indeed, and one of many stories that the House of Garrard holds within its walls.
Sotheby’s Diamonds
Sotheby’s has seen billions of dollars pass through its imposing doors in the form of rare and exquisite diamonds.
“Sotheby’s has sold 4 out of the 5 most expensive jewels ever offered at auction, led by the “CTF Pink Star”, a 59.60ct oval-cut Fancy Vivid Pink Internally Flawless diamond sold at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in April 2017 for USD $71.2 million, a world record price for any diamond or jewel.” (Source)
Partnering with Diacore, Sotheby’s Diamonds draws on the knowledge and skill of creative and innovative jewellers to unveil the inner beauty and life of these ancient stones.
From concept to creation, the result is perfection in its purest form.
Experience The Brilliance First Hand
Does your ardour for these captivating stones drive you to discover more?
Beyond Curated has developed key relationships with some of London’s finest jewellers, allowing our discerning patrons behind-the-scenes access to some of the rarest and most beautiful jewels in the world.
We’d love you to share in the breath-taking wonder of London’s heritage by means of a personalised, private tour with a dedicated and knowledgeable expert at your side.
Indulge in the results of a Master Jeweller’s labours while you immerse yourself in the history, beauty and intrigue within each piece.
Would you care to join us?
