Aquamarine Jewelry: Elegance According to Suzanne Belperron
Unique Characteristics of Aquamarine
"From light blue to deep blue, with nuances of green, clear aquamarine evokes the colors of the sea. It is often cut into softly rectangular shapes with faceted edges, but also into ovals, rounds, squares, balls, or cabochons. This gem belongs to the beryl family, like emerald. While most aquamarines originate from Brazil, some come from the Tangaféno deposit on the island of Madagascar, renowned for its intensely blue stones, unique in their kind."
Suzanne Belperron and the Art of Aquamarine Jewelry
Suzanne Belperron, a renowned French jewelry designer, is celebrated for her innovative use of aquamarine in her creations. She skillfully integrated this stone with other gems to create breathtaking pieces.
Techniques and Expertise of Suzanne Belperron
Belperron's technique focused on harmonizing shapes and colors, always seeking to highlight the main stone. She enjoyed playing with contrasts, pairing aquamarine with gems like moonstone or amethyst to create jewelry of rare elegance. Her mastery of gold and precious stones gave rise to uniquely timeless designs.
Iconic Aquamarine Creations
"Similar to Jean Fouquet, Suzanne Belperron cherished it, as shown by a sumptuous Plastron necklace of oval and round aquamarines in mosaic set in yellow gold. This jewel is complemented by a pair of earrings adorned with rectangular, pear-shaped, and oval aquamarines. Suzanne Belperron also liked to combine aquamarine with moonstone or amethyst. A superb necklace is thus composed of polished baroque aquamarines, with a cardinal amethyst and a tourmaline intercalated with an aquamarine."
Aquamarine in History and Culture
Aquamarine is not only a gemstone of modern jewelry but also carries a rich history and symbolism. Appreciated since antiquity for its beauty and sea-like color, it is often associated with tranquility, purity, and believed to protect sailors at sea.
Symbolism and Beliefs Surrounding Aquamarine
The peridot's nuances range from lime green to olive green. These stones were highly sought after from antiquity. The Egyptians led expeditions into the Red Sea to the island of Zabargad ("olivine" in Egyptian). Famous in the West as the "stone of knights" or "crusader's emerald," they were brought to Europe by knights returning from the Crusades.
Aquamarine and its Artistic Fragility
"Despite the fragility of these clear stones, which makes their cutting and setting delicate, Suzanne Belperron imagined a jewel blending the opacity of pale green jade with the brilliant shine of deep green emeralds." This fragility requires particular expertise and craftsmanship, enhancing the value of aquamarine jewelry.
Conclusion: Aquamarine Jewelry, a Legacy of Beauty and Elegance
Aquamarine jewelry, with its unique color and brilliance, continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts. Suzanne Belperron's legacy in showcasing this gemstone is a testament to her unmatched talent and artistic sense.
