One of the most extraordinary gem collections in the world is at the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian has recently unveiled their new jewelry line inspired by their gem collections produced in an exclusive partnership with QVC, the TV shopping channel. The lovely gemstone pieces are mounted in sterling silver and gold and range from $65- $950.
The purpose behind this endeavor? According to Carol LeBlanc, the director of the Smithsonian Enterprises business unit, "We will create jewelry that is not only fashionable, but also serves to educate the public about the Smithsonian and the jewelry, gems and minerals found in its collections''. Imagine, history on the shopping channel! And not the sort taught in schools either!
Two special programs will appear on the shopping channel. The inaugural one, Smithsonian Institution: National Gem Gallery will air this Tuesday, September 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. (EDT). The footage will include a behind-the-scenes tour of the Smithsonian as well as rarely seen gems from the Smithsonian vault.
The program planned for December will showcase some of their most famous pieces - Marie Antoinette’s earrings, the Napoleon necklace (given to Napoleon's second wife after he ditched Josephine, see story below) and naturally, the Hope Diamond, their star attraction. The Hope Diamond has had many owners including Louis XV of France and Harry Winston, the flamboyant jeweler who donated the Hope to the Smithsonian and sent it via USP!
More bejeweled biographies:
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Blue topaz and diamond ring inspired by the Smithsonian's Blue Heart Diamond
The purpose behind this endeavor? According to Carol LeBlanc, the director of the Smithsonian Enterprises business unit, "We will create jewelry that is not only fashionable, but also serves to educate the public about the Smithsonian and the jewelry, gems and minerals found in its collections''. Imagine, history on the shopping channel! And not the sort taught in schools either!
Two rings, similar design with different gemstones
(1) Heliodor (yellow beryl) and yellow sapphires
(2) morganite (pink beryl) and pink sapphires
Two special programs will appear on the shopping channel. The inaugural one, Smithsonian Institution: National Gem Gallery will air this Tuesday, September 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. (EDT). The footage will include a behind-the-scenes tour of the Smithsonian as well as rarely seen gems from the Smithsonian vault.
Aquamarine and pearl ring ; Alexandrite and diamonds ring
Turquoise and white topaz ring ; Garnet crown ring inspired by a garnet hairpin
The program planned for December will showcase some of their most famous pieces - Marie Antoinette’s earrings, the Napoleon necklace (given to Napoleon's second wife after he ditched Josephine, see story below) and naturally, the Hope Diamond, their star attraction. The Hope Diamond has had many owners including Louis XV of France and Harry Winston, the flamboyant jeweler who donated the Hope to the Smithsonian and sent it via USP!
Citrine necklace; Rhodonite and onyx cuff
More bejeweled biographies:
- Harry Winston and the Hope Diamond's 50th anniversary at the Smithsonian
- Josephine de Beauharnais' Obsession with Jewelry
- Madame de Pompadour's Jewels ( mistress of Louis XV of France who achieved her "career" goal but at a great cost)
- The Last Queen of France's Pearls (Marie Antoinette)
For more tutorials check out my Jewelry Making Tips
Liked what you read? Don't miss a post!
Subscribe
via RSS OR Via Email* It's FREE!*Click on the link in the confirmation email to activate subscription
___________________
The Beading Gem's Journal
wow that blue topaz ring is fantastic!
ReplyDeleteAwesome collection. The design work is too good.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know the history of the Alexandrite and diamonds ring from QVC's Smithsonian Institution: National Gem Gallery Collections.
ReplyDeletemrhorn2@cox.net
The best thing is to contact the Smithsonian via their website. I am sure they will be able to help.
ReplyDelete