Core: A Masterpiece of Gemstone Genesis by Paloma Sanchez

Winner of the Silver A' Jewelry, Eyewear and Watch Design Award in 2023

Paloma Sanchez's Core necklace draws inspiration from the awe-inspiring process by which gemstones are formed. The intense pressure and heat these natural elements undergo give birth to the stunning treasures that captivate our senses. It is this very process that serves as the foundation for the necklace's design.

The centerpiece of the necklace is a breathtaking 2.5cts natural Sri Lankan pink sapphire, representing the pinnacle of natural beauty that results from this process. Complementing this beautiful sapphire are two Silicon specimens representing the earth's crust, from which these gems are born. These specimens were carefully selected for their dark color and rough texture, providing a stark contrast to the bright pink and smooth faceting of the sapphire.

What sets the Core apart is its unique properties. It is a handmade one-of-a-kind necklace with two silicon specimens holding a pink sapphire core. The design features 18kt "melted" gold accents and an 18kt gold chain. The necklace has been handmade using a wax casting technique, and the minerals have not been subjected to any color or clarity-enhancing treatment.

The project started in 2019 in Switzerland, where Sanchez found the two silicon specimens. Later on, in Sri Lanka, she found the pink sapphire. The design was conceived in 2021 after a conversation with her son, who suffers from Autism Spectrum disorder (ASD) level 1, and sometimes feels trapped in his body. The piece was finished by June 2021.

The Core is a testament to Paloma Sanchez's innovative approach and meticulous craftsmanship. It is a celebration of the remarkable process by which gemstones are formed, serving as a timeless reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. This design was awarded Silver in A' Jewelry, Eyewear and Watch Design Award in 2023, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.

Core is a handmade, one of a kind, necklace with two silicon specimens from the Swiss Alps holding a Sri Lankan natural pink sapphire core. The design features 18kt melted-looking gold accents and an 18kt gold chain. The round brilliant cut Pink Sapphire 2.5cts acts as the centerpiece of the necklace, carving a space for itself between the two silicon specimens as if the gem was breaking the earth to see the light. The design effectively captures the essence of the genesis of gemstones in a visually striking manner.