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A rare 9-carat pink diamond goes on display after 100 years of its theft

A rare nine-carat pink diamond, stolen from a French château nearly 100 years ago, has been unveiled to the public for the first time.

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Huayou Cobalt secures 50% interest in Ghana’s Ewoyaa Lithium Project

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Russian government greenlights Digital Mine platform for mining enterprises

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De Beers transfers initial BWP 1 billion contribution to Botswana’s Diamonds for Development Fund

De Beers has transferred its initial BWP 1 billion ($73 million) contribution to the Diamonds for Development Fund, marking a major milestone for the initiative designed to support Botswana’s long-term economic diversification.

Yesterday

Design Trends

13 august 2008

Big and flamboyant jewelry is still the vogue of the day, but designers at the JCK and Couture shows held in Las Vegas did their best to make them look more exquisite, National Jeweler writes.
Cocktail rings continue their reign in the spotlight, but the freshest pieces are mostly metal pieces that forgo one large stone in favor of a few small diamonds or gemstones scattered here and there across a ring.
While these rings are large and statement-making, many designers are offering airy, openwork versions that give the feel of volume without the weight.

For those who do like the look of one large stone, rings set with cabochons are another prevalent look, offering a new air to the faceted look that has long been a favorite.
The minimization of stones was also seen at the shows in the form of pave diamonds. Covering everything from cocktails rings and pendants to bangles and earrings, designers showed a fascination with uber-small stones.
In terms of color, designers are showing a number of pieces in black and yellow gold combinations. Whether it’s a gold cuff bracelet with blackened silver or a gold pendant studded with black pave diamonds, the theme is notable for its contrast, and for its friendliness to the wallet. Combining silver with gold helps to keep prices down, and black diamonds tend to be less expensive than colored or colorless diamonds.

Continuing design themes are art deco or vintage designs, geometric designs and nature-inspired looks, with designers showing a particular interest in insect motifs.
In addition, pieces that offer any form of personalization are hot tickets. Whether it’s a horoscope charm or an adornment from which proceeds go to benefit charity causes, consumers are increasingly interested in items that have a story to them. Going along with this idea of catering to consumer interests is the notion of variety. Designers at the Vegas shows have been showing jewelry that can be worn in a number of ways.