Recently, the Mumbai laboratory received an intriguing submission for an identification report. The opaque gray stone was carved and faceted to resemble a panther’s face, with two green marquise mixed-cut stones for eyes (see above). The piece weighed 67.18 ct and measured 28.45 × 24.17 × 11.37 mm.
Microscopic examination revealed no major surface-reaching features in the heavily included gem. The item, analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy at room temperature with 405 nm excitation, exhibited absorption features typical of a type Ia diamond, along with the presence of a hydrogen-related 3107 cm–1 peak. The PL spectroscopy showed emissions associated with the N3 defect.
According to the client, the finished piece, titled “Jade Fang,” took nearly a year of dedicated craftsmanship to complete. The diamond initially weighed 113 carats and required the use of advanced cutting tools due to its heavy inclusions. Two natural Zambian emeralds weighing 0.29 ct and 0.27 ct, previously submitted to GIA, were added to finish the panther’s face.
Unlike traditional cuts designed to maximize brilliance through symmetry, unique shapes such as this one challenge the cutter. This piece reminds us that the true value of a diamond lies not just in its gemological characteristics but also in the artistry that brings it to life.
Roxane Bhot Jain is manager of pearl, melee, and AGSI technical and market development, and Manisha Bhoir is manager of analytics, at GIA in Mumbai.
Recently, the Mumbai laboratory received an intriguing submission for an identification report. The opaque gray stone was carved and faceted to resemble a panther’s face, with two green marquise mixed-cut stones for eyes (see above). The piece weighed 67.18 ct and measured 28.45 × 24.17 × 11.37 mm.
Microscopic examination revealed no major surface-reaching features in the heavily included gem. The item, analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy at room temperature with 405 nm excitation, exhibited absorption features typical of a type Ia diamond, along with the presence of a hydrogen-related 3107 cm–1 peak. The PL spectroscopy showed emissions associated with the N3 defect.
According to the client, the finished piece, titled “Jade Fang,” took nearly a year of dedicated craftsmanship to complete. The diamond initially weighed 113 carats and required the use of advanced cutting tools due to its heavy inclusions. Two natural Zambian emeralds weighing 0.29 ct and 0.27 ct, previously submitted to GIA, were added to finish the panther’s face.
Unlike traditional cuts designed to maximize brilliance through symmetry, unique shapes such as this one challenge the cutter. This piece reminds us that the true value of a diamond lies not just in its gemological characteristics but also in the artistry that brings it to life.
Roxane Bhot Jain is manager of pearl, melee, and AGSI technical and market development, and Manisha Bhoir is manager of analytics, at GIA in Mumbai.
