Sparkling delights

SHILPI MADAN

Gemstones are climbing the popularity charts. So make sure you choose those sparklers right.

If you thought that old gold was bold, think again. Exotic gemstones spell a contemporary exuberance that simply enthrals. Glittering gemstones are fast clawing their way up the popularity charts, making their presence felt on and off the ramp, in bridal finery and in a multitude of configurations. Hear gem gurus sieve out the winking delights making a wallet dent this season.

Little treasures make wonderful pleasures. They even make you sparkle, sizzle and shine. “The past few years have seen a greater awareness of gemstones through advertising,” says jewellery designer Pradeep Jethani. “Since blue and green are eye-catching colours, they are making rapid inroads into jewellery designs, singularly as well as in combination with diamonds.” Add to it the precision in designs and you find the electric sapphires and alluring tourmalines moving at a dizzying pace through the glitterati events.

Mesmerising colours and aesthetically pleasing cuts appeal. As do the prices. “The cost of diamonds has escalated radically over the past few years,” points out jewellery designer Poonam Soni. “With fashion trends changing at a rapid pace, this is making semi precious stones like tourmaline and citrine favoured bets in the gems selection owing to both their colour and price range.”

“The emerald, ruby and sapphire are hot on the popularity circuit these days,” says jewellery designer Varuna D. Jani. “Yet a sapphire, not many people are open to buying without astrological consultation. In semi precious stones, citrine and tourmaline are favoured choices. Then follow garnet and black onyx.”

“Since most people are very superstitious about blue sapphires, tanzanite comes closest in appearance to the sapphire in the precious stones category and is therefore the perfect pick,” says Jethani. Lower than these on the price ladder stand the cool blue topaz and limpid turquoise. “Tanzanite is moving fast off the shelves due to its brilliance and availability in all sizes and price ranges.”

Of course, you need to remember that as all gems are not created equal, they are not sold at the same price either. Comparison with a better cut gemstone is the best way of assessing the quality of a gemstone. The brighter and more vivid the colour, the better. Muted colours are often less expensive whereas shade and saturation also impact the price points. A gem that is clear has lesser flaws and is more highly priced. “Ornamental stones like lapis lazuli, turquoise and onyx are pleasing to the eye, but do not have astounding resale value,” points out jewellery designer Neelam Kothari. So weigh your options and reasons for investing in Burmese rubies, deep emeralds and ruddy rubies. After all, buying a gemstone is a lifelong affair. Go get them.

Where to get them

Varuna D Jani: Ramani Villa, Plot No: 118, 1st Road, T.P.S-IV, Bandra (W). Mumbai- 400 050. Ph: 91+22+2651 2723. Her V- Glam collection range starts from Rs.15,000 upto 2,00,000. Varuna D Jani collection range starts from Rs.2,00,000.

Jet Gems: 28th Road Bandra(W), Mumbai 400050.

Ph: 91+22+2644 2955. Prices start at Rs. 8000`````````````````````````.

Neelam Jewels: 202, Sainara, 2nd Floor, 21, Linking Road, Bandra, Mumbai.

Prices start at Rs. 20000

Carat Care

Store in separate zip lock bags and then in jewellery pouches to prevent them from bruising each other

Arrange in velvet trays deep enough, so that there is no pressure on the gems

Spray your fragrances before wearing jewellery. Spirits harm the natural lustre of the stones.

Always open your jewellery on a padded surface like a carpet or on the bed, to avoid accidental cracks and breakage

Polish with a felt cloth yourself if gems seem lacking in shine over a period of time. Hot water or an ultrasonic cleaner can damage gemstones.