GEMSWORLD | 10 | 2019/20 INSIGHTS New stars The vibrant colour and unique sparkle of spinel have aroused the interest of many gem lovers in recent years, disclosed Redmayne. He also noted an increase in the number of enquiries on the stone, whose history is in fact even longer than that of rubies. According to Chu, since the discovery of a large deposit of spinel in the Mahenge mine in Tanzania, the popularity of the stone continued to grow. Other highly sought-after gemstones include Paraiba tourmalines, padparadscha sapphires, alexandrites, fancy sapphires as well as jadeites. For gem lovers who already have a wide collection of exquisite gemstones, items that are truly unique would be their next target. “Gemstones such as jelly opals, which are generally less expensive but have a unique personality would be a good addition to the treasure troves of sophisticated collectors,” added Shek. Value-added designs The differences in colour, transparency, size, shape and even in the form and amount of inclusions in each specimen shape up the personality of each coloured gemstone, and make it desirable among collectors. In today’s sophisticated precious gem market, uniformity can no longer satisfy buyers, explained Chu. Buyers nowadays want one-of-a-kind goods. The value of gemstones from a less popular origin could be augmented by contemporary designs or a reputable designer or brand. “For instance, the price of a Mozambique ruby or a Brazilian emerald could rise significantly if the design is cutting-edge regardless of the quality of the stone, especially for jewellery designs with a story and unique concept,” she continued. Giving back to society in terms of contributions to national economies and local community projects are among Gemfields’ core initiatives. According to Gemfields CEO Sean Gilbertson, 23% of Gemfields’ ruby revenues has to date been directed towards such endeavours. | 贡献社区经济、教育、医疗工作，实践企业社会责任及建立可持续 发展是Gemfields十分重视的工作 This 36.68-carat Burmese spinel and diamond necklace sold for HK$3.7million (aroundUS$473,452) at Bonhams’ Hong Kong Jewels and Jadeite sale in May 2018 | 36.68 克拉天然无经处理缅甸尖晶石配钻石项链于2018年5月 邦瀚斯香港贵皇珠宝拍卖会上以370万港元售出 In recent years, auction houses have increasingly been working with private labels or reputable designers at auctions. This trend of collaboration is not merely a marketing initiative but also illustrates how bespoke designs can further add value to coloured gemstones. Redmayne also sees the positive impact that fashion houses and world-renowned labels have on the development of the coloured gemstone market. When a famous fashion house comes out with a collection focusing on a certain colour, jewellery brands would create collections following this prevailing trend. To catch up with fast-moving trends, jewellers now shorten their product cycles and launch new items quicker to answer customers’ evolving needs.
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