Gemology 101: Gemstone Carving | Coomi
11 Jan 2019

Gemology 101: Gemstone Carving

This article first appeared on Jewelry Television, jtv.com
Written by Joni Loveday, Accredited Jewelry Professional (GIA)

Carved gemstones are making a comeback as the perfect example of modern technology borrowing ancient techniques. Long ago, gemstones were designed into many different shapes, designs, and symbols rather than smooth and shiny gemstones. The art of carving gemstones has been a tradition for many years and has been practiced by many artisans all over the world.

Hand-carved Rose Quartz and Diamond Earrings, $980. product:/affinity-rose-quartz-and-diamond-earrings

Hand-carved Aquamarine Earrings, $12,000. product:20k-carved-aquamarine-earrings

Sterling silver carved green agate and diamond pendant, on sale $600. product:sterling-silver-carved-green-agate-and-diamond-pendant

Ancient civilizations began carving gemstones--the art form known as glyptography--thousands of years ago, creating ornate pieces fit for members of past Roman nobility. This art form was practiced by various civilizations including Persians, Assyrians, and Egyptians. These cultures carefully crafted ornate designs into gems carved from a single piece of rough.

 

Hand-carved Bone Ring, $9,800. product:20k-bali-ring

0K Carved Blue Sapphire and Diamond Pear Ring, on sale $5,600. product:20k-carved-blue-sapphire-and-diamond-pear-ring

Sterling Silver Carved Yellow Agate and Diamond Pendant, on sale $600. product:sterling-silver-carved-yellow-agate-and-diamond-pendant

During the 19th century, newer ways of cutting gemstones developed, and by the 20th century, carving became somewhat of a lost art known only to very few. Now the tradition of carving is being restored, with a modern twist as skilled artisans revive this ancient tradition.

Each piece from our BALI collection was hand-carved by a single artisan in Bali, Indonesia. Hand-carved Ebony Wood with Multi-Gemstone Earrings, $26,000. product:20k-bali-earring-with-orange-and-green-sapphire

Each piece from our BALI collection was hand-carved by a single artisan in Bali, Indonesia. Hand-carved Saba Wood Pendant, $11,000. product:20k-bali-pendant-with-diamonds-and-opals

Sterling Silver Carved Crystal and Diamond Pendant, on sale $600. product:sterling-silver-carved-crystal-and-diamond-pendant

It is common to see carvings featuring a floral design that is reflective of traditional Indian architecture. One of the greatest influences in the designs is the Taj Mahal, an architectural oasis consisting of flowering vines carved from stone, and the designs in the carved gemstones mimic that of the renown architecture. 

Hand-carved Carnelian Earrings, $1,950. product:20k-carved-carnelian-earrings

20K Affinity Carved Mandarin Garnet and Pearl Earrings, $6,000. product:affinity-carved-mandarin-garnet-and-pearl-earrings

Because nature plays such an important role in this culture, it is portrayed through the designs in architecture and gemstones. These gemstone carvings are rich in culture, tradition, and beauty. 

Shop some of the most spectacular pieces from our hand-carved collection:

 

Blue Chalcedony and Diamond Earrings, $980. product:affinity-blue-chalcedony-and-diamond-earrings

20K Affinity Carved Carnelian Earrings, $9,000. product:20k-affinity-carved-carnelian-earrings

 

Hand-carved Blue Chalcedony Feather Earrings with Diamond, $19,500. product:20k-blue-chalcedony-feather-earrings

20K Affinity Carved Peridot Earrings, $19,000. product:20k-affinity-carved-peridot-earrings

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