Schlumberger (1907-1987) was a Parisian artist and jeweler who became the first Tiffany designer to have the privilege of signing his name to his jewelry. One of his most famous pieces was the brooch entitled “Bird on a Rock” with the Tiffany 128.54-ct yellow diamond.
Kashmir sapphires of fine quality are the most highly prized sapphires because of their rarity and rich intense velvety blue color that looks good in all types of light. Found in a remote region of the Himalayan mountains of northwestern India, the most important production of Kashmir sapphires occurred between 1882 and 1887. Crystals as large as 5” x 3” of superb quality were found during this period. Mining was officially halted from 1889—1905.
Then between 1906 and 1908, several fine sapphires were found when alluvial deposits were reworked, but since then, not much material has been found and the quality has been inferior. Located at about 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level, the Kashmir deposit can only be reached on foot or by helicopter. Due to their rarity and exceptional color, Kashmir sapphires of high quality can command much higher prices than their counterparts from other sources.
More information on sapphire is in my Ruby, Sapphire & Emerald Buying Guide. www.reneenewman.com/ruby.htm
Even though the book is technically out of print, it is still available for sale from Jewelry Television.
Guest articles by Renée Newman:
https://gem-spectrum.com/category/renee-newman
About the author:
Renée Newman is a gemologist (GG, GIA), lecturer, writer and author of 15 books on gems and jewelry. Her goal is to provide consumers and jewelry professionals with unbiased, affordable information on how to buy, evaluate and appreciate gems and jewelry. She can be reached through her website:
