Stone to Style...Parti Sapphires
Today we are sitting down with Rob, UMUN Jewellery Studio’s resident gemmologist and Clarisse, Forge Chiffon’s jewellery stylist, to explore the ever-so-fascinating world of sapphires.
Rob and Clarisse, we have previously chatted about classic blue sapphires, but today I am interested in an extraordinary type of sapphire… the parti sapphire.
So let’s begin with the stone…
What is a parti sapphire and where are they mined?
A parti sapphire is a unique gemstone, perfect for those looking for something highly individual. It’s a sapphire that has two or three colours present within the one stone ie. partially coloured. Usually blue, green and yellow due to traces of iron and titanium oxide. Each one totally unique, just like a finger print. Parti sapphires are mainly mined in Australia, However they can also be found in Nigeria, Madagascar and Tanzania.
Which array of colours do they come in?
Usually blue, green and yellow. We also see brownish shades and golden tones.
Are parti sapphires natural or lab produced?
Natural, they are impossible to replicate via lab procedures.
How are they graded and what is their hardness?
Parti sapphires are graded like all other sapphires in terms of carat, cut and clarity, but it is the colour that sets them apart.
All sapphires are part of the corundum family, rating 9 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, second to diamonds…so a hard gemstone and suitable for everyday wear.
Which cut best showcases the colour?
When selecting a parti sapphire you should choose it on its unique colour pattern rather than shape.
A parti sapphire needs to be cut by a experienced cutter who knows how to get the best out of the stone.
With their unusual colour zones, the gem cutter needs to be able to enhance the colours rather than worry about the carat weight so often we see them in unusual cuts compared to more typical sapphires.
Now onto style….
Which complexions would a parti sapphire best enhance and which metal would you set them in?
There are parti sapphires to suit every complexion.
They can be set in white, rose and yellow metal. Each stone has its own unique colour way so best to consider each one individually.
Which personal aesthetic do they suit and are there any particular colours you would suggest styling them with?
They are a great stone for nature lovers and individuals who like to be unique.
Muted hues and any natural hue will look the best.
With this said, which piece of jewellery would you set a parti sapphire in?
Because the parti sapphire is a hard gemstone, it’s very wearable for rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets.
I think a ring would be a great choice either dress ring or engagement ring. It’s also a great gemstone for the men!
From a style perspective would you suggest a solitaire setting or multi-stone setting for a parti sapphire?
Most of the time I would suggest a solitaire given that each stone is unique in its own right. Making them more challenging to mix together. However, if you are looking for something out of this world and you have the time to wait for the right stones to be found they can look truly amazing set together.
Also parti sapphires look great with pearls.
And lastly to wrap up today’s interview… I am now loving parti sapphires and would like to get something made! Where do I begin?
Book in an appointment, try to make it at around 2pm….this is the best time to view sapphires and let me show you the magic that these beautiful, unique gemstones hold.
Lustre on Lustre... Pearls for You
Over time every female needs to build a wonderful fine jewellery portfolio that’s uniquely her….
The perfect jewellery portfolio is all about a selection of beautiful pieces that have great attachment, past and present, that can be worn on repeat, always elevating ones unique styles while matching ones individual colour palette.
As a stylist and also a jeweller I believe it all starts here with a pearl… a touch of lustre… as they have the power to enhance everyone.
Pearls are the most feminine of gemstones one can wear, while yes, you will be showing a romantic side when wearing them but most importantly, if they are chosen correctly you will be stepping out with confidence that your complexion is looking as radiant as possible…all this, simply done with the addition of an accessory to your personal style…a pearl.
Starting with the classically beautiful pearl stud that can be worn wherever to an elegant pair of pearl drop earrings. Perhaps a pearl pendant for the office is more your style to a complete strand for the opera or maybe a bracelet and for those special occasions slide on a divine pearl ring.
With such a variety of fine pearls, from Fresh Water to Akoya, South Sea and Tahitian… they range in natural colours. Pearls vary from the whitest of white, the lightest of greys to blacks and soft champagnes to the warmest of golds.
When we select pearls for individuals we always match to ones colour palette.
Let us share a little bit of our stylist’s knowledge with you today:-
Pearls absorb the colours in their surroundings due to their reflectiveness, flattering nearly every wearer.
A pearl reflects light, beautifully naturally illuminates your skin.
The overtone effects of a pearl makes the pearl attractive and interesting to the beholder.
Warm, cream overtones bring softness to the wearer.
Peacock overtones can be worn with all colours in clothing, the only difference is light and dark. The pearls themselves will echo any tone.
Every pearl possesses its own unique overtone.
Hair colour also effects the harmony between the wearers face and pearl.
Warm creams to golds will suit complexions that tan.
So whichever type of pearl you choose, colour and tone… with all its shimmering iridescence, if matched perfectly, you will glow.
There is a perfect pearl just for YOU!
Curious???
Book a complimentary 15 minute appointment today with our stylist.
Start your journey and let us help you discover the beauty of pearls…