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Quartz Pendant
Specimen | Catalog Number | Locality | Weight |
---|---|---|---|
Quartz | NMNH G9930 | United States, North Carolina | 136.34 ct |
The 18k yellow gold pendant has an exceptionally large 136.34ct cushion-cut rock crystal quartz gem. It is accented with a tassel that is highlighted with 8 round cut rubellite tourmalines. This pendant is part of the 31-piece American Gem Society (AGS) collection for the Smithsonian Institution titled "American Gemstone Jewelry Collection." The collection was commissioned by the AGS to help increase Americans’ understanding and appreciation of native gemstones. All of the major gemstones were from North America. Some gems were from the Smithsonian’s own collection (quartz), and others were gifts (tourmalines). Aldo Cipullo designed each piece; he was a Coty Award winner and a well-known jewelry designer who created the famous "love" bracelet for Cartier. The Smithsonian curator at the time wanted statement pieces that would be appropriate for display, so wearability was not a consideration. The American Gemstone Jewelry Collection toured several museums and continues to be loaned to this day. Each piece from the Collection is one-of-a-kind in design.