Photo: Prudence Cuming Associates © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd
Gemstones have been historically and traditionally used in the decorative arts, from jewellery, the most obvious, to marquetry, interior decoration (in floor tiles), sculpture, and even in architecture (like in the Taj Mahal).
In a broader sense of the creative arts, other contemporary vehicles for art expression have also been using precious stones as materials.
Photo: Prudence Cuming Associates © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd
Let’s illustrate this with a sculpture by famous British contemporary artist Damien Hirst, a member of the Young British Artists movement, unveiled in 2007, entitled “For the Love of God”, a 2.156 kg work of art in platinum, produced at the Bentley & Skinner workshop in London, based on a real 18th-century skull.
It features a staggering number of 8,601 cut diamonds totalling 1,106.18 carats that cover the outside and inside of the 32 precious metal plaques that build up the skull.
The central gem is the pear-shaped 52.40 ct Fancy pink “Skull Star Diamond” surrounded by 14 D-colour diamonds (37,81 ct in total weight).
With an estimated production cost of £13 million, it was reportedly sold for £50 million in 2008.
It is impossible to remain indifferent to this impressive and impactful jewelled piece of art, if not for its always debatable beauty and artistic merits among the experts, at least from a gemmological and craftsmanship point of view. Absolutely unique.
Photo Prudence Cuming Associates © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd
Guest articles by Rui Galopim de Carvalho:
https://gem-spectrum.com/category/rui-galopim-de-carvalho
About the author:
Rui Galopim de Carvalho is a renowned independent Gem Education Consultant, author, luxury industry training expert and popular international lecturer on gemmology and on the history of gem materials. During his 30 year experience as a gemmologist, Rui has studied important collections in both public and private museums, notably the Portuguese Crown Jewels.
Founder of the popular Home Gemmology webinar series launched during the COVID-19 lockdown, Rui has a long history as a gemmology communicator, notably on social media where he is a popular figure.
Rui Galopim de Carvalho can be reached through his website:
