GEMEL: Lightweight Versatile Imitation Gemstone

Award-Winning Design by Katherine Alexandra Brunacci

Katherine Alexandra Brunacci, a renowned designer, has created GEMEL, a lightweight versatile imitation gemstone that can be utilized in all forms of jewelry. Inspired by faceted gemstones in historical jewelry, GEMEL stands out for its strength, unique properties, and stunning aesthetics.

What sets GEMEL apart from other gemstones is its lightweight nature, making it excellent for use in earrings. Weighing an average of 6gms (for a stone size of 30 x 25 x 10mm), GEMEL provides unparalleled comfort for the earring wearer compared to other gemstones and imitation gemstones of this size. Its strength also allows it to be worn as a ring without fear of deformation.

The use of vitreous glass enamel in GEMEL gives the opportunity for a wide range of colors, patterns, and sheens to be implemented, making each piece truly unique. Clients have been amazed by GEMEL earrings, often mistaking them for real gemstones. In fact, GEMEL earrings were even featured in the music clip "Good Intent" by Kimbra.

GEMEL is handcrafted individually using fine silver, sterling silver, and vitreous glass enamel. The production process involves manual press-forming using a kick-press, followed by enameling and firing using a kiln. The attention to detail and craftsmanship ensures the highest quality for each GEMEL gemstone.

The primary function of GEMEL is to be worn as jewelry. It can be used in earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, providing endless possibilities for personalization. The lightweight nature of GEMEL allows for large-scale pieces to be created without compromising on comfort.

Katherine Alexandra Brunacci started the research process for GEMEL in July 2007 and completed it in November 2009 in Melbourne, Australia. The production time for each GEMEL gemstone is approximately 3 hours, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship involved.

GEMEL presented several challenges during its creation. Press-forming a geometric shape with sharp corners and edges without tearing the metal was one of them. Additionally, creating a press-formed shape that is hollow, lightweight, and durable enough to be worn as earrings or a ring required innovative techniques and materials.

Katherine Alexandra Brunacci's aim was to create a gemstone using press-forming as the method of fabrication and incorporate it into historically referenced jewelry designs. The result is GEMEL, a lightweight replica gemstone that can be produced in a wide variety of vibrant colors, patterns, and sizes. GEMEL opens up new possibilities for shapes and colors in jewelry design.

GEMEL has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2012 in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. GEMEL's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to a better world.