The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Museum’s new and exclusive exhibit, “Best in Platinum,” showcases 17 award-winning jewelry pieces selected from a variety of platinum jewelry collections. The exhibit was assembled by Platinum Guild International (PGI), and is being shown together for the first time in the U.S.
According to James Courage, PGI CEO, “The exhibit is a collaboration of jewelry design excellence and creativity. We hand-selected each piece because it illustrates the high quality and versatility of platinum.”
“The exhibition showcases talented designers from all over the world who choose to work in platinum because of its natural beauty and durability. These works of art are truly an international collaboration featuring jewelry pieces from China, Japan, Italy, India, South Africa, Germany and the U.S.,” added Courage.
Highlights include pieces from the PlatAfrica design competition and the Aqua Collection, as well as several other award-winning platinum jewelry pieces designed by Gurhan, Kirk Kara, Mark Schneider, Michael B., Tom Munsteiner, Danhov and Krikawa. These designs were recognized for their use of platinum by industry organizations, such as the American Gem Trade Association, Jewelers Circular Keystone, Platinum Couture Style Challenge and the Women’s Jewelry Association.
Some of these industry-honored jewelry pieces include a platinum bracelet with a 29.26 carat (ct.) aquamarine, and a platinum men’s ring set with 171 micro pave diamonds and an 11.54 ct. beautifully cut indicolite blue tourmaline.
The Aqua Collection, making its U.S. debut, was inspired by the life-giving force of water. One necklace, Iraja, features a cascade of 303 diamonds and 450 grams of platinum.
The five PlatAfrica pieces featured in the exhibition are winners of a platinum jewelry design competition from professional jewelers and students in South Africa. A delicate platinum arum lily with gold stamen is one piece from this showcase.
“We are honored that PGI has chosen the GIA Museum to display these items,” said Terri Ottaway, GIA Museum curator. “This is a wonderful opportunity to share with others the beauty, creativity and craftsmanship involved in designing jewelry, and specifically, learning more about the beautiful metal, platinum.”
The Best in Platinum exhibit will be on display at the GIA Museum until April 30, 2010.
