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.
Your Look Complete... Colour Your Way : Blue Topaz
Every woman needs a dress ring…
While all jewellery elevates, often the wearer will only see glimpses of her precious pieces throughout the day… as for a ring, it’s a piece that can be adored by others, but also the wearer herself by simply glancing down throughout the day/evening and capturing its beauty.
Our blue topaz ring is a statement that simultaneously evokes an overwhelming feeling of tranquillity and calmness through its serene blue hue, enhanced by the flowing movement of the band…. reminiscent of watching the ocean waves gently roll into the shore.
When designing this ring we developed the line of beauty. A centre line that softly curves, creating the infinity band, signifying liveliness and activity. Exciting the viewer and wearer… the eye can’t help but trace the white gold path, delightfully interrupted by the vessel that gently cradles the vibrant blue gem.
Infinity band side relief
The colour, size and shape of this design captures the attention of all… from the most feminine of romantics to the most modern of contemporaries… even having the ability to captivate our oh-so-extravagant dramatics.
This ring effortlessly elevates ones style… from the most casual of looks to evening wear, or why not pair with one’s sartorial workwear style? Amongst the chaos of the office, a simple glance at this tranquil beauty will allow the mind to wander… with the peaceful blue and streaming contours taking you to a special place or a time, bringing boundless bliss.
Effortlessly elevating work wear style
Come and adorn your finger… with a sparkle that is creative in colour, complementing all and allowing infinite styling potential….
YOUR LOOK COMPLETE WITH COLOUR YOUR WAY
Contact us and book an extraordinary appointment today.
Which Sparkle Are YOU?
Everyday jewellery needs to elevate all looks while working with any style, personality or colourway we choose to wear.
Therefore, a simplistic, elegant design that enhances without dominating is the perfect piece to reach for day in and day out… cue Qualia!
Let us introduce you to our latest addition to the range…
This exquisite pendant is part of a signature collection designed and inspired by a recent trip to Japan…the people, their fashion and “Sakura”.
Simultaneously embracing structure and flow, minimal yet creative. A design transcending all personalities while adding perfection to all occasions.
This latest addition was designed with structure for elegance and wearability while the unique metal contours of the fistula form create movement, adding the essential flow to the design.
As a jeweller I’m captivated by the beauty of sparkle and as a stylist I’m in awe of the power gained by wearing sparkle. From how an individual is elevated in their style to the confidence that is reflected when the wearer adds their best colour, whether this is a neutral, bright or pastel…
Sapphires that dance… there is a colour for all
Our latest pendant and innovative concept allows you to choose your perfect sparkle with a stylist guidance. As we work through a selection of diamonds and sapphires we will share knowledge about gemstones, their colours and how best to select the one that works the best for you.
It’s also about how and where you would like to wear the piece, to the shades that complement your complexion, your hair and your unique eye colour, with all elements coming together ensuring that this design is set with your best sparkle. Having you looking and feeling the best version of yourself every day.
So which is your sparkle of choice…a diamond, from white to champagne, even black or perhaps it’s a sapphire in a soft delicate lavender, bright sunshine yellow or a shade of blue?
Whichever way you choose to go we have you covered…
Book an extraordinary appointment today and together let’s explore and choose your SPARKLE to make our latest design uniquely YOU!
Our fistula pendant awaits a diamond or sapphire that complements YOU!