Covid-19 Shall Pass, But These Emerging Trends Will Drive The Jewelry Industry Ahead

[TORONTO, Canada] -- As I look out of my home-studio window, the daffodils and tulips are blooming, the cardinals are singing. It’s spring. It’s also 12 weeks into the lockdown. 

In end-February, I landed home in Toronto from an extensive Asia visit. The day I flew from Thailand, the media was reporting on Covid-19 cases, so I self-isolated myself. Canada soon announced a countrywide lockdown. The world is in a crisis management phase since.

Reena Ahluwalia

Reena Ahluwalia

JEWELRY INDUSTRY TRENDS HERE TO STAY POST COVID-19

The manner in which this pandemic is impacting global businesses, people and shaping our mindscapes is quite stunning. All this in a matter of a few months. I will leave out the topics of online platforms, digital & social media strategies, webinars that have all been widely discussed and are of importance. What I want to share instead are my views on emerging cultural and consumer trends that will impact our business going forward. 

1. Post-pandemic Consumer Behaviour

The Covid-19 crisis has taught us the value of things, of what is necessary versus discretionary. In lockdown mode, people made use of what they already had or was essentially needed. Will that mean moving away from over-consumption to meaningful consumption? Possibly. If you notice closely this was an emerging trend, now fuelled further by the Covid-19 crisis. What does it mean for the global jewelry industry which relies on discretionary spending? One of the answers I feel is to look at how we can narrate jewelry with purpose driven, meaningful consumption and one that responds to consumer's overall mental, physical and financial wellbeing.

2. Nature & Sustainability

Our jewelry industry is closely linked to nature's bounty - metals, diamonds and gemstones. I believe this crisis is sending a strong signal to humanity. To prevent future climate catastrophe and spread of deadly diseases, we have to step up and refocus our energy in nurturing nature and in our sustainability efforts. For consumers the climate issue is going to resurface once the Covid-19 crisis starts becoming manageable. Can we as an industry urge action through meaningful engagement? One of the most effective ways to tackle climate change is through purpose-led actions coming from design thinking. People deeply care about climate and connection to the natural world. I am one of them. I bike and haven't owned a car in decades. I reuse, recycle and avoid waste. I am also conscious of companies I buy from. What we wear is a big part of our personal identity, and that's what jewelry does so well, it lets us show who we are to the world.

3. Value, Meaning and Purpose

Now, more than ever we need a connection to who we are, what we love and how we show it. Jewelry is about our personal identity, celebration and dreams. Consumers will return to jewelry, but with a changed perspective. They will return and look for jewelry with meaning, purpose, positivity, joy and deep personal connection to who they are and what they value. This must reflect in our jewelry designs. It must reflect how wearing jewelry makes us feel. 

The ‘Inner Brilliance’ spinning diamonds collection from ‘Coronet by Reena’. A pointer points to the true center, reminding what's most valuable to us; our family, values, goals and milestones. ©Design Copyright. Patented setting.

The ‘Inner Brilliance’ spinning diamonds collection from ‘Coronet by Reena’. A pointer points to the true center, reminding what's most valuable to us; our family, values, goals and milestones. ©Design Copyright. Patented setting.

MY PERSONAL FOCUS

Like most of us, my first concern once the pandemic hit was the safety of my family, my team, friends and those experiencing dire situations amid this crisis around the world. I made early donations to some of the organizations that I support. Now that I look back, it was timely. 

Soon, I started reorganizing my days and priorities to tackle the many challenges that the lockdown has brought to my business. I am also helping a few emerging jewelry designers who are entering the world of jewelry on how to navigate this tough landscape. I am reading books that were on my 'To Read' list, cooking, and exercising. In this environment of digital overload, I am very careful of what I choose to watch, hear and consume digitally. I call those my 'essentials'. Social isolation is difficult, so I am constantly reminding myself to take care of my mental, physical and spiritual self. 

Being a jewelry designer and artist, I am used to very long studio hours and creating in isolation. That focus came in handy. The current crisis has made me think even deeper about my values, connection to nature and how I want to contribute in future. This thinking has guided me to create with a renewed purpose.

Check out my latest diamond paintings from the LIT Series. You will know what I mean. 

No amount of darkness can hide sparks of light. The LIT Series of diamond paintings by Reena were painted during the Covid-19 crisis. Dedicated to all heroes, the paintings celebrate our shining human spirit. ©Copyright.

No amount of darkness can hide sparks of light. The LIT Series of diamond paintings by Reena were painted during the Covid-19 crisis. Dedicated to all heroes, the paintings celebrate our shining human spirit. ©Copyright.

Finally, I hope you are not pushing for hyper-productivity and forcing unrealistic goals causing performance anxiety. I can only share my experience and what works for me and hope you will consider it. I feel this crisis is a time to attune yourself to what's happening around you. Feel it, think about it and explore your ideas. The best creative solutions are when all these elements interconnect and harmonize. 

We will come out of this crisis altered, but with true inner light, sense of purpose and clarity of direction. 

I wouldn't wish anything less for you. 

Reena Ahluwalia Speaks at the Gem-A Conference 2017

Reena Ahluwalia was invited by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) to speak on 'Diamond Storytelling Through Design & Art'. A topic Reena has spoken extensively about. Reena highlighted need for diamond industry to tell diamond stories that can authentically connect to next generations and their aspirations.

Diamonds already start as nature's art-forms. One thing we have learnt in the diamond and jewellery business is that each generation brings their own challenges and opportunities. Collectively as an industry we must have the vision to not only seek to understand the Millennials, but also the generation that will exert their market power after them. According to Reena, trends may come and go, but stories are truly cross-generational. Stories never go out of fashion. Stories, live on.

Established in 1908, the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, or Gem-A, is the world’s longest established provider of gem and jewellery education. 

Read Reena's speaker's interview for Gem-A

Reena Ahluwalia with Gem-A CEO, Alan Hart.

Reena Ahluwalia with Gem-A CEO, Alan Hart.

Gem-A CEO, Alan Hart with Reena Ahluwalia and Alan Bronstein. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A

Gem-A CEO, Alan Hart with Reena Ahluwalia and Alan Bronstein. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A

Reena Ahluwalia Speaking at the Gem-A Conference 2017. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A

Reena Ahluwalia Speaking at the Gem-A Conference 2017. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A

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Chandra Horn, Reena Ahluwalia, John Bradshaw, Richard Drucker at the Gem-A Conference. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A

Chandra Horn, Reena Ahluwalia, John Bradshaw, Richard Drucker at the Gem-A Conference. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A

Reena Ahluwalia showing the Coronet By Reena spinning diamonds collection to attendees at the Gem-A conference. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A.

Reena Ahluwalia showing the Coronet By Reena spinning diamonds collection to attendees at the Gem-A conference. Image: Henry Mesa, Gem-A.

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Wonderful Mark Cullinan of Cullinan Diamonds (his great grandfather was the owner of the famous Cullinan Mike), is now the owner of Reena Ahluwalia's blue diamond painting.

Wonderful Mark Cullinan of Cullinan Diamonds (his great grandfather was the owner of the famous Cullinan Mike), is now the owner of Reena Ahluwalia's blue diamond painting.

Wonderful Mark Cullinan of Cullinan Diamonds (his great grandfather was the owner of the famous Cullinan Mike), is now the owner of Reena Ahluwalia's blue diamond painting.

Wonderful Mark Cullinan of Cullinan Diamonds (his great grandfather was the owner of the famous Cullinan Mike), is now the owner of Reena Ahluwalia's blue diamond painting.

 

 

Reena Ahluwalia Speaks At The Tokyo Diamond Exchange

Reena Ahluwalia was invited to speak at the Tokyo Diamond Exchange on 'Diamonds And The Power Of Storytelling'. President of The Tokyo Diamond Exchange, Michio Iwasaki graciously welcomed Reena on her visit to the Exchange and shared insights about the market. The event was well attended by the leading diamantaires and jewelers from Japan. Honorary Dean, Hidetaka Kato was present and appreciated Reena's body of work in diamonds, her jewelry designs and her diamond paintings. Event was beautifully organized by Secretary-General, Yoshiaki Yamaka. Here are some of the highlights from Reena's talk at the Tokyo Diamond Exchange. 

President of the Tokyo Diamond Exchange, Michio Iwasaki with jewelry designer, painter and professor, Reena Ahluwalia.

President of the Tokyo Diamond Exchange, Michio Iwasaki with jewelry designer, painter and professor, Reena Ahluwalia.

Reena Ahluwalia talked about the importance of engaging the next generations in the storytelling ability of diamonds and urged members to look beyond the 4Cs. She pointed out the need to understand 'Why' trends happen, and 'Why' do people buy diamon…

Reena Ahluwalia talked about the importance of engaging the next generations in the storytelling ability of diamonds and urged members to look beyond the 4Cs. She pointed out the need to understand 'Why' trends happen, and 'Why' do people buy diamonds. This will help in answering the 'What' we need to do as diamond industry to keep the diamond dream going.

Yosiyasu Simozono, Yuji Hisaga (Tokyo Kiho Co. Ltd.) and Reena Ahluwalia at the Tokyo Diamond Exchange.

Yosiyasu Simozono, Yuji Hisaga (Tokyo Kiho Co. Ltd.) and Reena Ahluwalia at the Tokyo Diamond Exchange.

Sunao Nakao (Nagahori Corporation) and Reena Ahluwalia at the Tokyo Diamond Exchange.

Sunao Nakao (Nagahori Corporation) and Reena Ahluwalia at the Tokyo Diamond Exchange.

LEGACY

Here's a special piece that I want to share with you, it's titled "Legacy".

LEGACY vintage-inspired platinum engagement ring by Reena Ahluwalia, takes it's inspiration from the fabled jewelry-vault of Royal Asscher from 1920s-1930s, conjuring the old Hollywood glamour and romanticism.

Marquise shape buds form the shank of the ring, center Royal Asscher Cut diamond represents a bloom with promise of new future and creation of lasting legacy together. Stylized and warmly organic!

Legacy engagement ring by Reena Ahluwalia for Royal Asscher Diamonds. Platinum. Royal Asscher cut, marquise cut and round diamonds.

Legacy engagement ring by Reena Ahluwalia for Royal Asscher Diamonds. Platinum. Royal Asscher cut, marquise cut and round diamonds.

Legacy engagement ring by Reena Ahluwalia for Royal Asscher Diamonds. Platinum. Royal Asscher cut, marquise cut and round diamonds.

Legacy engagement ring by Reena Ahluwalia for Royal Asscher Diamonds. Platinum. Royal Asscher cut, marquise cut and round diamonds.

Type IIa Diamonds

Type IIa diamonds are the most valued and the purest type of diamonds. They contain either very little or no nitrogen atoms in the crystal structure. White stones are exceptionally colorless and fancy colored diamonds are often found with a brown, purple, blue, or pink tone. They represent only 1% - 2% of all mined diamonds in the world. 

What makes the Type IIa diamonds even more special is that they are “super-deep” diamonds. Most Type IIa diamonds originate from extreme depths in Earth’s mantle, a depth between 360 and 750 km. To put it in context, most diamonds are formed between 150 to 230 kilometers below the Earth's crust.

In the world of mined diamonds, Type IIa are so rare that they command a 5% to 15% premium, when they can be found.

One of the most well-known examples is the “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond” (formerly known as the “Krupp Diamond”), a 33.19-carat Type IIA diamond.

Purchased for $300,000 in 1968 by Richard Burton, the ring became one Elizabeth Taylor’s most cherished white diamonds; one she wore nearly every day. Of the ring, she once said, “[It] gives me the strangest feeling for beauty. With its sparks of red and white and blue and purple, and on and on, really, it sort of hums with its own beatific life.”  The Asscher-cut diamond ring recently sold at auction for a whopping $8.8 million.

Other iconic historic Type IIa diamonds include the Cullinan, the Lesedi La Rona, the Koh-I-Noor, the Darya-I-Noor, the Archduke Joseph, the Regent, the Agra, The Star of the South, The Winston legacy and the Beau Sancy. Type IIa diamonds also have a famous historic connection with Golconda diamonds mined from the historic Kingdom of Golconda in India.

Reena Ahluwalia holds the Type II A, D-color, 910-carat ‘The Lesotho Legend’, the fifth-largest gem diamond in history. In 2018, the diamond was sold for $40 million. The diamond is from the Letseng mine in Lesotho, a country encircled by South Afri…

Reena Ahluwalia holds the Type II A, D-color, 910-carat ‘The Lesotho Legend’, the fifth-largest gem diamond in history. In 2018, the diamond was sold for $40 million. The diamond is from the Letseng mine in Lesotho, a country encircled by South Africa. According to Gem Diamonds, it was the largest diamond to have been recovered from the mine (untill 2018).

Cullinan Diamond is a Type IIa, super-deep diamond. Photograph showing two models (replicas) of the original stone. The Cullinan Diamond was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and presented to King Edward VII in 1907.  Image: Royal Collection © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Cullinan Diamond is a Type IIa, super-deep diamond. Photograph showing two models (replicas) of the original stone. The Cullinan Diamond was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and presented to King Edward VII in 1907. Image: Royal Collection © Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Famous Type IIa Diamonds.Shown here: (1) The De Beers Millennium Star | 203.04 carat, (2) The Lesedi la Rona | 1109 carat,  (3) The Koh-I-Noor | 105.60 carat, (4) The Pink Legacy | 18.96 carat, (5) The Idol's Eye | 70.21 carat, (6) The Cullinan I | 530.20 carat, (7) The Graff Venus | 118.78 carat, (8)The Agra | 28.15 carat. Images and information complied by Reena Ahluwalia.

Famous Type IIa Diamonds.

Shown here: (1) The De Beers Millennium Star | 203.04 carat, (2) The Lesedi la Rona | 1109 carat, (3) The Koh-I-Noor | 105.60 carat, (4) The Pink Legacy | 18.96 carat, (5) The Idol's Eye | 70.21 carat, (6) The Cullinan I | 530.20 carat, (7) The Graff Venus | 118.78 carat, (8)The Agra | 28.15 carat. Images and information complied by Reena Ahluwalia.

The Eden Rose, a 10.20-carat Fancy Intense Pink Diamond is a Type IIA diamond. Image: Christie’s, 2024. The stone is clear of any secondary hues like gray, blue, or purple that are common in natural pink diamonds.

The Eternal Pink sold for $34.8 Million. The cushion mixed-cut Fancy Vivid Purplish Pink diamond weighing 10.57 carats. Of all the diamonds submitted to the GIA, less than 3% are classified as colored diamonds, and less than 5% of those are considered predominantly pink. The Eternal Pink is arguably the most important pink diamond ever to appear at auction. The diamond was discovered in 2020 at the Damtshaa mine in Botswana. The rough weighed 23.78 carats and was carefully cut in Diacore’s New York City facility over a period of six months. Image: Sotheby’s, 2023.

Other famous, historic pink diamonds are the Agra, the Regent, the Williamson Pink and the Darya-i-Noor.

This extraordinary 76.46-carat heart-shaped diamond is a Type IIA diamond. Came up at the Christie’s New York Magnificent Jewels sale in 2022. Image: Christies.

The Sakura Diamond is a 15.81 carat, largest Fancy Vivid Purple-Pink Internally Flawless Type IIa diamond to ever appear at auction. Sold at Chrisrie’s for $29.3 million in Hong Kong in May 2021 to become the most expensive purple-pink diamond ever to sell at auction. Image: Christie’s.

The Sakura Diamond is a 15.81 carat, largest Fancy Vivid Purple-Pink Internally Flawless Type IIa diamond to ever appear at auction. Sold at Chrisrie’s for $29.3 million in Hong Kong in May 2021 to become the most expensive purple-pink diamond ever to sell at auction. Image: Christie’s.

The 102.39 carat, Maiko Star Diamond is a Canadian, Type IIa, D Colour, Flawless Oval Diamond. Held here by Sotheby’s employee during a media preview at Sotheby's on Sept. 9, 2020 in New York City. PHOTO BY ANGELA WEISS /AFP via Getty Images.Read my…

The 102.39 carat, Maiko Star Diamond is a Canadian, Type IIa, D Colour, Flawless Oval Diamond. Held here by Sotheby’s employee during a media preview at Sotheby's on Sept. 9, 2020 in New York City. PHOTO BY ANGELA WEISS /AFP via Getty Images.

Read my interview about this colossal TypeIIa diamond here: https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/diamond-auction-1.5723379

The diamond was sold to a Japanese private collector who names the gem ‘Maiko Star’ after his second daughter. The same collector bought the 88.22-carat ‘Manami Star’ at Sotheby’s in April 2019 for his first daughter.

The 102.39 carat, Maiko Star Diamond is a Canadian, Type IIa, D Colour, Flawless Oval Diamond. Image: Sotheby’s.

The 102.39 carat, Maiko Star Diamond is a Canadian, Type IIa, D Colour, Flawless Oval Diamond. Image: Sotheby’s.

 The Spirit of Rose diamond, is a 14.83 ct Fancy Vivid Purple-Pink, IF, Type IIa diamond. Only 1% of all pink diamonds are larger than 10-carats and only 4% of all pink are graded ‘Fancy Vivid’. Named ‘The Spirit of the Rose’ aft…

The Spirit of Rose diamond, is a 14.83 ct Fancy Vivid Purple-Pink, IF, Type IIa diamond. Only 1% of all pink diamonds are larger than 10-carats and only 4% of all pink are graded ‘Fancy Vivid’. Named ‘The Spirit of the Rose’ after Vaslav Nijinsky’s legendary ballet, Le Spectre de la rose, the diamond was mined, cut and polished in Russia. Its unparalleled qualities make it the largest Purple-Pink diamond to ever appear at auction. Credit: Sotheby’s, 2020

The rough diamond was unearthed by ALROSA from the Ebelyakh deposit in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) in the northeast of Russia in July 2017. The stone was cut from the largest pink crystal ever mined in Russia which is currently the world’s …

The rough diamond was unearthed by ALROSA from the Ebelyakh deposit in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) in the northeast of Russia in July 2017. The stone was cut from the largest pink crystal ever mined in Russia which is currently the world’s most important diamond producer by volume. The 27.85-carat clear pink rough diamond was itself called the “Nijinsky”, a nod to the legendary dancer and his acclaimed performance as the “Rose” in the original Ballets Russes performance. The Spirit of Rose diamond, is a 14.83 ct Fancy Vivid Purple-Pink, IF, Type IIa diamond. Credit: Sotheby’s, 2020

The 100-carat D flawless shield-shaped diamond was bought by Moussaieff for over $6 million in July 2020. Image: Moussaieff

The 100-carat D flawless shield-shaped diamond was bought by Moussaieff for over $6 million in July 2020. Image: Moussaieff

The Pink Legacy, a Fancy Vivid Pink, Type IIA, cut-cornered rectangular-cut diamond of 18.96 carats. This incomparable pink diamond has descended from the Oppenheimer Family and was sold for $50.4 million. Image: Christie’s / 2018

The Pink Legacy, a Fancy Vivid Pink, Type IIA, cut-cornered rectangular-cut diamond of 18.96 carats. This incomparable pink diamond has descended from the Oppenheimer Family and was sold for $50.4 million. Image: Christie’s / 2018

Pink Legacy.jpg
Stephen Silver, gemologist and jeweler, who is known for his keen eye for gemstones sold the Pink Promise, a Type IIa, 14.93 carat Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond for $32 million at the Christies’ Hong Kong Auction, 2017.

Stephen Silver, gemologist and jeweler, who is known for his keen eye for gemstones sold the Pink Promise, a Type IIa, 14.93 carat Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond for $32 million at the Christies’ Hong Kong Auction, 2017.

Pear-shaped, Type IIa “Artemis Pink” and Type IIb “Apollo Blue”, Sotheby's + Reena Ahluwalia 'Portal of Dreams' diamond painting.

Pear-shaped, Type IIa “Artemis Pink” and Type IIb “Apollo Blue”, Sotheby's + Reena Ahluwalia 'Portal of Dreams' diamond painting.

The Artemis Pink is a Type IIa, Fancy Intense Pink Diamond weighing 16.00 carats. Image: Sotheby's

The Artemis Pink is a Type IIa, Fancy Intense Pink Diamond weighing 16.00 carats. Image: Sotheby's

Unique Pink, a 15.38 ct. fancy vivid pink diamond, the largest fancy vivid pink pear-shaped diamond ever offered at auction. Image: Sotheby's 2016

Unique Pink, a 15.38 ct. fancy vivid pink diamond, the largest fancy vivid pink pear-shaped diamond ever offered at auction. Image: Sotheby's 2016

The largest D flawless, Type IIa, round brilliant diamond in the world. 102.34 carat. At 102.34 carats, this masterpiece of nature is the rarest white diamond ever to come to the market and the largest, round D colour flawless diamond known to man. …

The largest D flawless, Type IIa, round brilliant diamond in the world. 102.34 carat. At 102.34 carats, this masterpiece of nature is the rarest white diamond ever to come to the market and the largest, round D colour flawless diamond known to man. The only stone of its kind ever graded by the GIA, the diamond has achieved the highest rankings under each of the criteria by which the quality of a stone is judged. The diamond is D colour; of exceptional clarity (it is completely flawless, both internally and externally); and has excellent cut, polish and symmetry. As with the famous Cullinan I and Koh-i-noor diamonds, which are part of the British Crown Jewels, the stone is part of the rare subgroup comprising less than 2% of all gem diamonds, known as Type IIa. Diamonds in this group are the most chemically pure type of diamond and often have exceptional optical transparency. Image: (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) / Sotheby's / 2018

The largest D flawless, Type IIa, round brilliant diamond in the world. 102.34 carat. Image: (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) / Sotheby's / 2018

The largest D flawless, Type IIa, round brilliant diamond in the world. 102.34 carat. Image: (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) / Sotheby's / 2018

Dubbed as the 'RAREST WHITE DIAMOND' - Sotheby's 102.34 ct, D Flawless, Type IIa. Was cut from a 425-carat rough mined by the De Beers Group in Botswana. 2018. Image: Nils Jorgensen/REX

Dubbed as the 'RAREST WHITE DIAMOND' - Sotheby's 102.34 ct, D Flawless, Type IIa. Was cut from a 425-carat rough mined by the De Beers Group in Botswana. 2018. Image: Nils Jorgensen/REX

Dubbed as the 'RAREST WHITE DIAMOND' - Sotheby's 102.34 ct, D Flawless, Type IIa. Was cut from a 425-carat rough mined by the De Beers Group in Botswana. 2018. Image: WENN

Dubbed as the 'RAREST WHITE DIAMOND' - Sotheby's 102.34 ct, D Flawless, Type IIa. Was cut from a 425-carat rough mined by the De Beers Group in Botswana. 2018. Image: WENN

THE QUEEN OF KALAHARI - an ultra-rare 342-carat, Type II A, D-Flawless diamond found by Lucara Diamond Corp in 2010 at Karowe, Botswana.

THE QUEEN OF KALAHARI - an ultra-rare 342-carat, Type II A, D-Flawless diamond found by Lucara Diamond Corp in 2010 at Karowe, Botswana.

THE QUEEN OF KALAHARI - an ultra-rare 342-carat, Type II A, D-Flawless diamond found by Lucara Diamond Corp in 2010 at Karowe, Botswana. This magnificent stone was transformed into THE GARDEN OF KALAHARI, a collection of six jewellery creations by C…

THE QUEEN OF KALAHARI - an ultra-rare 342-carat, Type II A, D-Flawless diamond found by Lucara Diamond Corp in 2010 at Karowe, Botswana. This magnificent stone was transformed into THE GARDEN OF KALAHARI, a collection of six jewellery creations by Caroline Scheufele, Chopard. http://www.chopard.com/diary/the-queen-of-kalahari/

THE GARDEN OF KALAHARI, a collection of six Type II A diamond jewellery creations by Caroline Scheufele, Chopard. http://www.chopard.com/diary/the-queen-of-kalahari/

THE GARDEN OF KALAHARI, a collection of six Type II A diamond jewellery creations by Caroline Scheufele, Chopard. http://www.chopard.com/diary/the-queen-of-kalahari/

THE GARDEN OF KALAHARI, a collection of six Type II A diamond jewellery creations by Caroline Scheufele, Chopard. http://www.chopard.com/diary/the-queen-of-kalahari/

THE GARDEN OF KALAHARI, a collection of six Type II A diamond jewellery creations by Caroline Scheufele, Chopard. http://www.chopard.com/diary/the-queen-of-kalahari/

Lucara Diamond sold giant Type IIa, 813-ct. Constellation diamond for $63M US in May 2016. Just to put all this in perspective, it is the the highest price ever achieved for the sale of a rough diamond. Image: Lucara Diamond Corporation

Lucara Diamond sold giant Type IIa, 813-ct. Constellation diamond for $63M US in May 2016. Just to put all this in perspective, it is the the highest price ever achieved for the sale of a rough diamond. Image: Lucara Diamond Corporation

At 1109-carat, the "Lesedi La Rona" is the largest gem-quality rough diamond to be discovered in over a century and the largest Type IIa rough diamond in existence today. Image: Lucara Diamond Corporation

At 1109-carat, the "Lesedi La Rona" is the largest gem-quality rough diamond to be discovered in over a century and the largest Type IIa rough diamond in existence today. Image: Lucara Diamond Corporation

At 118.78 carats, the “The Graff Venus” is the world’s largest D-color, Type IIA, flawless heart-shaped diamond. The Graff Venus was cut from a 357-carat rough diamond discovered in 2015 at the Letšeng Mine in Lesotho. Image: Graff Diamonds

At 118.78 carats, the “The Graff Venus” is the world’s largest D-color, Type IIA, flawless heart-shaped diamond. The Graff Venus was cut from a 357-carat rough diamond discovered in 2015 at the Letšeng Mine in Lesotho. Image: Graff Diamonds

At 118.78 carats, the “The Graff Venus” is the world’s largest D-color, Type IIA, flawless heart-shaped diamond. The Graff Venus was cut from a 357-carat rough diamond discovered in 2015 at the Letšeng Mine in Lesotho. Image: Graff Diamonds

At 118.78 carats, the “The Graff Venus” is the world’s largest D-color, Type IIA, flawless heart-shaped diamond. The Graff Venus was cut from a 357-carat rough diamond discovered in 2015 at the Letšeng Mine in Lesotho. Image: Graff Diamonds

100.20-Carat, Type IIa, Internally Flawless 'Perfect Diamond' could fetch $25 Million in auction in New York in 2015. Photo courtesy: Sotheby's

100.20-Carat, Type IIa, Internally Flawless 'Perfect Diamond' could fetch $25 Million in auction in New York in 2015. Photo courtesy: Sotheby's

100.20-Carat, Type IIa, Internally Flawless 'Perfect Diamond' could fetch $25 Million in auction in New York in 2015. Photo courtesy: AP

100.20-Carat, Type IIa, Internally Flawless 'Perfect Diamond' could fetch $25 Million in auction in New York in 2015. Photo courtesy: AP

100.20-Carat, Type IIa, Internally Flawless 'Perfect Diamond' could fetch $25 Million in auction in New York in 2015. Photo courtesy: Reuters

100.20-Carat, Type IIa, Internally Flawless 'Perfect Diamond' could fetch $25 Million in auction in New York in 2015. Photo courtesy: Reuters

The 100.20-carat "Perfect" diamond during the cutting and polishing process. The original rough weighed more than 200 carats and was mined by De Beers in southern Africa. It took more than a year to study, cut and polish the rough into the 100-carat…

The 100.20-carat "Perfect" diamond during the cutting and polishing process. The original rough weighed more than 200 carats and was mined by De Beers in southern Africa. It took more than a year to study, cut and polish the rough into the 100-carat diamond. Photo courtesy: Sotheby's

The 100.20-carat "Perfect" diamond during the cutting and polishing process. The original rough weighed more than 200 carats and was mined by De Beers in southern Africa. It took more than a year to study, cut and polish the rough into the 100-carat…

The 100.20-carat "Perfect" diamond during the cutting and polishing process. The original rough weighed more than 200 carats and was mined by De Beers in southern Africa. It took more than a year to study, cut and polish the rough into the 100-carat diamond. Photo courtesy: Sotheby's

The 'Winston Legacy' is the largest white diamond ever to come to auction. The 101.73ct, Type IIa, pear-shaped, D colour, flawless diamond was sold to Harry Winston at Christie's auction of jewels in Geneva on 15 May 2013. Its the "largest of its ty…

The 'Winston Legacy' is the largest white diamond ever to come to auction. The 101.73ct, Type IIa, pear-shaped, D colour, flawless diamond was sold to Harry Winston at Christie's auction of jewels in Geneva on 15 May 2013. Its the "largest of its type" ever offered for public sale. Christies Images Ltd 2013.

World’s largest "flawless" D-color, colorless diamond at 101.73 carat. The stone was recently cut from a rough diamond, weighing 236 carats, that had been found at the Jwaneng mine in Botswana. It took 21 months to polish. The diamond is a Type IIa,…

World’s largest "flawless" D-color, colorless diamond at 101.73 carat. The stone was recently cut from a rough diamond, weighing 236 carats, that had been found at the Jwaneng mine in Botswana. It took 21 months to polish. The diamond is a Type IIa, less than 1% of the world's diamonds are Type IIa.

D-colour, internally flawless, Type IIa diamond of 56.15 cts. In 2011, sold at auction, and becoming a world auction record for any heart-shaped diamond. Image: Christie's

D-colour, internally flawless, Type IIa diamond of 56.15 cts. In 2011, sold at auction, and becoming a world auction record for any heart-shaped diamond. Image: Christie's

The “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond” (formerly known as the “Krupp Diamond”), a 33.19-carat Type IIA diamond. I had the honor of trying out this legendary beauty at Christie's New York. Memorable moment!

The “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond” (formerly known as the “Krupp Diamond”), a 33.19-carat Type IIA diamond. I had the honor of trying out this legendary beauty at Christie's New York. Memorable moment!

The “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond” (formerly known as the “Krupp Diamond”), a 33.19-carat Type IIA diamond. Purchased for $300,000 in 1968 by Richard Burton, the ring became one Elizabeth Taylor’s most cherished white diamonds; one she wore nearly every…

The “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond” (formerly known as the “Krupp Diamond”), a 33.19-carat Type IIA diamond. Purchased for $300,000 in 1968 by Richard Burton, the ring became one Elizabeth Taylor’s most cherished white diamonds; one she wore nearly every day. Of the ring, she once said, “[It] gives me the strangest feeling for beauty. With its sparks of red and white and blue and purple, and on and on, really, it sort of hums with its own beatific life.” The Asscher-cut diamond ring recently sold at auction for a whopping $8.8 million.

The Archduke Joseph Diamond. 76.02cts., D color, Internally Flawless, Type IIA. Image: APF

The Archduke Joseph Diamond. 76.02cts., D color, Internally Flawless, Type IIA. Image: APF

Type IIa and connection with Golconda Diamonds.  

A Golconda diamond is a diamond from a specific geographic area within the historic Kingdom of Golconda in India. Diamonds with proven Golconda provenance are of a specific type of rare, pure carbon diamond known as Type IIa. Less than 1-2% of the world's diamonds are Type IIa.

The kingdom of Golconda is situated in India's Deccan plateau. Golconda was a region located between the lower reaches of the Godavari, Wainganga, Wardha and Krishna-Venva rivers, in the present-day states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, central India.

 

Koh-i-noor is one of the most celebrated Indian diamonds and perhaps the best-known. A modified oval brilliant cut, the 105.60 ct diamond is set in Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother’s Crown. This is the name of the platinum crown that was designed fo…

Koh-i-noor is one of the most celebrated Indian diamonds and perhaps the best-known. A modified oval brilliant cut, the 105.60 ct diamond is set in Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother’s Crown. This is the name of the platinum crown that was designed for Queen Elizabeth, consort (or wife) of George VI, to wear at the Coronation of her husband in 1937. The Koh-i-noor is now on display in the Tower of London. Photo: Kenneth Scarratt. Courtesy: The Gemmologists, the Crown Jewels. Via GIA

The Idol’s Eye is Type IIb diamond, a 70.20 ct Very Light blue diamond that has been described as being between and round and a pear shaped brilliant cut It is believed to have originated from the Golconda region. This famous diamond is an early 17t…

The Idol’s Eye is Type IIb diamond, a 70.20 ct Very Light blue diamond that has been described as being between and round and a pear shaped brilliant cut It is believed to have originated from the Golconda region. This famous diamond is an early 17th century stone, an antique triangular modified brilliant cut light blue diamond. Named because of the legend that it once formed the eye of a temple statue, the diamond traveled through a number of international collections. Image Via GIA

Famous Golconda Type IIa Diamonds.Top Row: Hope (Golconda, but a Type IIb diamond) | Koh-I-Noor | Darya-I-Noor. Middle Row: Archduke Joseph | Regent | Sancy. Bottom Row: Wittelsbach-Graff | Beau Sancy | Dresden Green | Idol’s Eye.Images and information complied by Reena Ahluwalia.

Famous Golconda Type IIa Diamonds.

Top Row: Hope (Golconda, but a Type IIb diamond) | Koh-I-Noor | Darya-I-Noor. Middle Row: Archduke Joseph | Regent | Sancy. Bottom Row: Wittelsbach-Graff | Beau Sancy | Dresden Green | Idol’s Eye.

Images and information complied by Reena Ahluwalia.

Golconda Diamonds: Rahul Kadakia, Department Head, Jewelry, Christie's Americas, describes these very special and rare diamonds. (2005) (RT 3:13)

The Star of South Diamond. 128.48-carat, Type IIa, fancy light pinkish-brown diamond. It was discovered in 1853 and became the first Brazilian diamond to receive international acclaim.

The Star of South Diamond. 128.48-carat, Type IIa, fancy light pinkish-brown diamond. It was discovered in 1853 and became the first Brazilian diamond to receive international acclaim.

From The Treasury of Baroda - a magnificent three-tired diamond necklace, shown here worn by the Maharani of Baroda, Sita Devi in 1948. Khande Roe, Gaekwar of Baroda, had this necklace made to display two important diamonds - The 128.48-carat, Type …

From The Treasury of Baroda - a magnificent three-tired diamond necklace, shown here worn by the Maharani of Baroda, Sita Devi in 1948. Khande Roe, Gaekwar of Baroda, had this necklace made to display two important diamonds - The 128.48-carat, Type IIa, Star of the South (fancy light pinkish-brown) and the 78.5-carat English Dresden below it. Necklace photo: circa 1880.

The Beau Sancy Diamond. Type IIa, 34.98 ct., modified pear, double rose cut diamond. The stone has passed through four European Royal families. Image: Sotheby's

The Beau Sancy Diamond. Type IIa, 34.98 ct., modified pear, double rose cut diamond. The stone has passed through four European Royal families. Image: Sotheby's


 

 

Esperanza Diamond is a Type IIa, internally flawless, D-color, 4.65-Carat ‘Triolette’, cut by master cutter Mike Botha.

Esperanza Diamond is a Type IIa, internally flawless, D-color, 4.65-Carat ‘Triolette’, cut by master cutter Mike Botha.

118.28-carat, D-color, flawless, Type IIa, magnificent oval diamond. Image: Sotheby's

118.28-carat, D-color, flawless, Type IIa, magnificent oval diamond. Image: Sotheby's

A model holds a 118.28-carat, flawless diamond dubbed the 'Magnificent Oval Diamond' during a media preview at Sotheby's Hong Kong auction house on September 19, 2013. The stone broke a world record on October 7, 2013 when it fetched more than 30 mi…

A model holds a 118.28-carat, flawless diamond dubbed the 'Magnificent Oval Diamond' during a media preview at Sotheby's Hong Kong auction house on September 19, 2013. The stone broke a world record on October 7, 2013 when it fetched more than 30 million USD on auction. Photo: Laurent FIEVET

In the past I have authored posts on, Bejeweled Maharaja & Maharani of Mysore, Koh-i-Noor Diamond, Diamonds on World Postage Stamps, Top Ten - Largest Diamonds Discovered In The WorldSplendors of Mughal IndiaThe Magnificent Maharajas Of IndiaMystery & History Of Marquise Diamond CutÓr - Ireland's GoldThe Legendary Cullinan DiamondBejeweled Persia - Historic Jewelry From The Qajar DynastyFamous Heart-Shaped DiamondsType II DiamondsGreen DiamondsRed Diamonds and more. Over years, I have spent countless hours in self-driven studies on diamond, jewelry history and research. I wrote these blogs for a simple reason - to share my collected knowledge with all who are interested, so that more can benefit from it. Take a look and enjoy! -- Reena

For The Love Of Diagonals

Directional | Dramatic | Dynamic - Diagonals intrigue me.

One of the ways, I figure, I look at things is by finding the logic of mathematics in forms, shapes, patterns and their relation to each other. It happens seamlessly and rather quietly.

To me there is something special about how diagonals render activity, emphasis, movement, speed and emotion. ​I am in the process of generating ideas for a high-value diamond. I have a feeling that diagonals will play a decisive role in its final destiny.

When eyes follow, so does the emotions! 

​Image: Chapel in Villeaceron By Sancho Madridejos Architecture Office

​Image: Chapel in Villeaceron By Sancho Madridejos Architecture Office


Image: Marcel Breuer - Hungarian-born modernist, architect and furniture designer.

Image: Marcel Breuer - Hungarian-born modernist, architect and furniture designer.

​Image: ‘Gold Virtuosi’ ensemble by Reena Ahluwalia. 18K white and yellow gold. 12 inch necklace transitions from 2D to 3D. Composed of diagonal planer elements and triangles; each plate is hinged and folds like pleats to create a 3D form. Inspired …

​Image: ‘Gold Virtuosi’ ensemble by Reena Ahluwalia. 18K white and yellow gold. 12 inch necklace transitions from 2D to 3D. Composed of diagonal planer elements and triangles; each plate is hinged and folds like pleats to create a 3D form. Inspired by Pragati Maidan, a large convention center in New Delhi, India. The impression it left on me, resulted in a gold jewel. I found the interplay of open and closed spaces fascinating, as they almost assume human qualities. A meeting place, coming together of minds, blending and forming.

Exploration drawings by Reena Ahluwalia. Lower left drawing shows how necklace transitions from 2-dimensional to 3-dimensional form.

Exploration drawings by Reena Ahluwalia. Lower left drawing shows how necklace transitions from 2-dimensional to 3-dimensional form.