Navneet Gems Introduces Portrait-Cut Rubies
The geometric collection is on view now at the Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong Show.
The gemstones, which the Thailand-based manufacturer unveiled at the Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong show happening now, are fashioned into portrait cuts weighing between 0.5 carats and 2 carats.
The portrait cut, seen most commonly in diamonds, is also called a lasque. It’s a thin, flat cut with a large table and slight facets on the side. In rubies, the red hue is seen through the table.
“Just as red diamonds are exceptionally rare, high-quality rubies with intense red color are also relatively scarce. Opting for an unheated ruby portrait-cut can be an excellent choice for those who appreciate something rare and distinctive,” said Navneet Agarwal, marketing manager of Navneet Gems & Minerals.
The rough rubies are hand-selected from Mozambique ruby mining company Fura Gems. The gemstones are later cut and polished in Thailand.
Agarwal said the cutting process, which requires specialized skills and high levels of precision, has taken years to master. It’s part of why portrait cuts in rubies and other gem categories are still relatively niche, he said.
“Gem cutters must meticulously plan and execute each cut, while minimizing wastage of the valuable material. Unheated rubies can have inclusions and imperfections within them [which] can make the cutting process highly challenging. Gem cutters must carefully work around them to avoid damaging the stone or compromising its structural integrity,” Agarwal said.
“The process of preforming, cutting and polishing a portrait cut involves removing significant portions of the gem's material, which can increase the risk of fractures or breakage, especially if there are internal stress points within the stone.”
Portrait-cut diamonds boast a long history rooted in ancient Indian jewelry making. They were sometimes used to enhance and protect miniature paintings.
“There’s an old-world feel which takes us back to the native cutting style from the Maharajas era, when they used to use a lot of portrait cuts,” said Agarwal.
He cites rising demand for “individualistic jewelry and more economical choices” as part of his motivation for developing the new collection.
“One has to adapt to changing consumer preferences by offering fresh options that go beyond traditional cuts. Portrait cuts are a creative and artistic way of shaping gemstones, including rubies, to create unique and intricate designs,” said Agarwal.
Part of the cut’s appeal is also that its large surface area gives the illusion of a bigger gem, Agarwal said.
“Portrait cuts give the impression of a bigger gemstone and promise a great value for money in terms of visual impact.”
The Latest
Kimberly Adams Russell is taking over the role from her father, David Adams, marking the third generation to hold the title.
As a token of womanhood, this necklace depicts when Venus was born from the sea.
The deal gives the retailer control over the distribution of Roberto Coin jewelry in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, and Central America.
Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.
Show your mother some love with a piece of fine jewelry.
The company’s Easton location will remain open.
Brian D. Fleming of Carla Corporation was elected to serve a one-year term in the role.
Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.
Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show
Tobak, author of “Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History,” shares how the exhibition came to be, and the pieces people may be surprised to see.
Stars adorned themselves in emeralds, platinum, and myriad bird motifs, writes Associate Editor Natalie Francisco.
M.S. Rau is set to open a seasonal gallery in the high-end resort town early next month.
The branded jewelry market is thriving, said Richemont Chairman Johann Rupert.
The six designers, all participants in the show’s Diversity Action Council mentorship program, will exhibit in Salon 634.
The highlight of his collection is the coveted Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime, which could sell for up to $5 million.
The “Venetian Link” series modernizes the classic Veneziana box chain in its bracelets and necklaces.
The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship will provide tuition assistance to two low-income students.
The Swiss watchmaker said the company’s plans to use a new version of the Hallmark crown on jewelry would confuse consumers.
The executive talked about the importance of self-purchasers and how fuel cell electric vehicles are going to fuel demand for platinum.
The Indian jeweler’s new store in Naperville, Illinois marks its 350th location, part of its ongoing global expansion plans.
It will award a graduating high school student with about $10,000 toward a GIA diploma and an internship with the Seattle-based jeweler.
Wheat Ridge, Colorado police took a 50-year-old man into custody Wednesday following a two-month search.
PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.
Nicolosi, president and CEO of The Kingswood Company, previously sat on WJA’s board from 2011 to 2018.
Karina Brez’s race-ready piece is a sophisticated nod to the horse-rider relationship.
The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.
“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.