Update – MASAI BLUE
The creation of the tanzanite ring “masai blue”
Recently, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) published an article about the creation of the tanzanite ring “Masai Blue” in their Spring Edition 2017 of “Gems & Gemology”.
The article is accompanied by a one-on-one interview with gemstone artist Alexander Kreis, and designer Sonja Kreis.
GIA: “a spectacular 27.20 ct freeform tanzanite complemented by a custom ring mount … [KREIS] related the importance of the story behind a jewelry piece for their clients—how details of the stone’s cut and the ring’s design represent the toil and effort of the Tanzanian miners and imbue the piece with added significance.”
The GIA continues by writing: “Even with such a top-quality piece, Alexander cautioned that success is never guaranteed. Unlike baseball—where you get three chances—with cutting, it’s “one strike and you’re out!” He added that the gem can never be its best if the cutter misjudges and makes it too flat. For this one-of-a-kind rough, classic cutting styles such as oval or cushion shapes might be counterproductive if too much weight is lost getting proportions right or if the deep blue color is lost. … He reminded us that mining in Merelani is a challenge, taking place at depths of up to 3,900 ft (1,189 meters). Miners can only work for short periods due to temperatures reaching 122°F (50°C), and they must take regular breaks in designated cooling areas.”
Discover more Ring Creations by KREIS.
More articles about the “Masai Blue”: