Little gems
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Focus on
loose gemstones
Gemstones remain a perfect option for designers seeking to create a unique and personal piece of statement jewellery, and Jon Chapple takes a look at some of the suppliers that can help
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emstones – distinctive pieces of precious mineral forged by seismic and volcanic activity deep beneath the earth’s surface – are part of the foundations upon which the tradition of fine jewellerymaking is built. From classic styles, such as the rich hues of sapphires and rubies, to rarer and more unusual stones like cornelian and lapis lazuli, the creative incorporation of a distinctive and carefully-chosen gem is a sure-fire way to set a piece of jewellery apart from others; adding instant collectability and providing the perfect way for the designer-maker to add that all-important personal touch. Coloured stone supplier Marcia Lanyon Ltd states that it is ready to deliver a wide and colourful range
of stock for the summer season. The company has provided coloured gemstones and pearls to jewellers all over the world for 33 years, and says that it is well known in the industry for its friendly customer service, competitive prices and excellent standard of quality. From unique pieces to calibrated sizes of cabochon and faceted stones, Marcia Lanyon can supply anything from a string of deep blue chunky lapis beads for a statement necklace, to a pair of on-trend fuchsia-coloured tourmaline for earrings. “Our friendly west London office is ready to help you find what you need; whether it’s beads, stones or pearls,” the company adds. The launch of Marcus McCallum’s expanded website (www.marcusmccallum.com)
means that its customers can now view its stock wherever they are. The new site will have photos and details of much of the company’s stock of individual precious and semi-precious stones and pearls and beads, and will be updated on a weekly basis, with new stock available to view on the ‘New Arrivals’ page, and rare and unusual pieces in the ‘Collectors’ Pieces’ section. The company reminds customers to keep a close eye on the ‘Latest News’ page for when Marcus will be going on buying trips, “so you can be among the first to see the new stock when it arrives back.” R M Weare & Company says that it has gained a reputation as one of the most trusted and respected gemstone suppliers in the UK through its attention to customer service, same-day turnaround on orders, and an extensive range of commerciallyused stones. It stocks a wide variety of shapes, sizes and qualities in diamond and coloured gemstones, as well as exquisite, one-off certificated stones, with gem-testing, valuation and cutting services also available.
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