Who are Hatton Labs?   Hatton Labs, who were founded by a pair of friends who were also business partners, Jack Cannon and Joe Gelb, have quickly become pioneers in the fashion and jewellery scenes. Departing from the rigid definitions that separate the various areas of jewellery; Hatton labs collections walk the fine line between […]

A pink diamond that has been called “Lulo Rose” is thought to be the largest of its kind discovered in the last 300 years. Here is our exploration of the stunning gemstone.  What makes the Lulo Rose special?   The Lulo Rose display The overwhelming diamond, weighing 34 grams, was found at Angola’s Lulo Mine […]

August, the middle month of Summer, hopefully highlighted by good weather and lots of fun being had outdoors.  Not exactly renowned for its birthstones though. Whilst some may know that peridot is the primary birthstone for August, not many will know about Spinel and Sardonyx, as well as the brilliant jewellery that can be made from […]

August, the height of Summer and a central month in the year, has a number of interesting birthstones with the most celebrated being Peridot. Whilst they aren’t the most renowned gems, such as a diamond or a ruby; Peridot can be used to create some brilliant jewellery. What makes peridot special   Whether or not […]

Hailey Bieber, model extraordinaire and one half of celebrity supercouple with Justin Bieber, has now staked a claim to being one of the best celebrities or influencers for jewellery inspiration. She often throws caution to the wind when it comes to jewellery and preconceived notions of “do’s and don’ts”. With a maximalist approach to both […]

One of the questions we regularly hear from people is, what jewellery should I wear to a wedding? People don’t want to wear something too big and overshadow the bride or draw too much attention to themselves; but they also want to be dressed up and show that they care about the event.    This is […]

  Pride and pendants: A celebration of jewellery during pride month With Pride month having passed and many of the nation’s biggest pride events having taken place in recent weeks, we have seen lots of celebration of pride and the LGBTQ community. As part of these celebrations, many have talked about the ways they enjoy […]

The Claddagh ring A beautiful piece of jewellery which went onto become a symbol of love and friendship for many years in Ireland; the Claddagh ring, which shows two hands clasping a crowned heart, has now become its own symbol of the Emerald Isles.  The origins of the Claddagh ring   Rings with two hands […]

Haute Couture fashion week plays host to some of the best jewellery at the most prestigious jewellery institution in the world, the Haute École de Joaillerie. Here are some of our favourite pieces from the various jewellery houses that are showing off their new collections.   Chaumet   Chaumet unveiled its Ondes et Merveilles collection, which […]

Adaptations of Jane Austen have always drawn attention, from the star casts to the period piece outfits that they wear. But rather than the Hollywood star power or the clothes in the Keira Knightley powerhouse adaptation of Pride and Prejudice or Autumn de Wilde’s Emma, we are taken by their wonderful track record of showcasing […]

Red is the colour of passion and romance, symbolising blood, life, death and love. So it is no surprise that July’s birthstone, the ruby, is a favourite of the jewellery world.  The meaning of the stone   It has long been linked with properties such as protection and granting you prosperity. The Ancient Burmese, regard […]

How does one choose an engagement ring? If you are buying a ring for a potential partner, and planning to propose with it, there is such pressure to find “the ring”. Not a ring, but “the ring”.  An engagement ring is supposed to symbolise how you feel about your partner, your relationship with them, all […]

The allure of Beyonce is boundless and needs no explanation. From her musical brilliance to her fierce, sassy energy, Queen B has captured the imagination of young girls to old men alike.  Hitting the covers of Vogue in July to launch a new era of her star studded career, Beyonce is once again back in […]

With Wimbledon fast approaching, Tennis bracelets are once again in vogue. Admired by tennis players and celebrities alike, the tennis bracelet is a classic piece of jewellery. They are luxurious, but can be practical and dressed down as well.  Emma Raducanu after winning the US Open What are tennis bracelets and what is happening to […]

The Queen is a British icon, and whether or not you like the monarchy, she is intertwined with modern Britain’s history. Becoming Queen in 1952, Elizabeth has been in the spotlight for over 70 years, when her father took the throne and throughout her reign. Along the way she has had many iconic jewellery moments, […]

One of the highlights of the film calendar is the Cannes Film Festival in France, where stars from across the world come to premiere their new films ahead of them being released for the public and for awards consideration. On the red carpet, these stars get to show off in their glamorous gowns and pieces […]

Men’s jewellery is having a moment in the spotlight; pioneered by Hollywood celebrities and a wave of men who are embracing their masculinity in a different way than previous generations. 

Downton Abbey is returning to the silver screen. To celebrate, we will be looking at some of the brilliant jewellery from the period drama and showing you how you can capture some of the Post-Edwardian elegance yourself through your own accessory choices. 

As red carpet season continues we look back to some of the most memorable jewellery moments on the red carpet in recent years. 

The history of using pearls in jewelry goes back more than 6,000 years. Lets explore the most expensive pearl pieces in the world. 

We present to you a round-up of some of the most interesting contemporary jewellery designers around the world to give you summer event inspiration.

With household names dominating the red carpet we introduce to emerging stars setting the art and fashion world on fire.

It’s Scandinavia’s only fashion week which has become increasingly prominent. Copenhagen, ahead of New York, London, Milan, and Paris, gives us an insight into possible upcoming runway trends.

In 2022 the Y2K trend that is dominating photoshoots and catwalks continues to influence purchasing decisions especially with jewellery. Here are some things to look out for through 2022.

London DE has put environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing at the forefront of its business model. We joined Fairmined to sustain this value.

With the popularity of K-dramas across the world and their often romantic content, there has become more and more interest in Korean culture and traditions.

Diamonds are beautiful stones which make you feel sparkling when adorned, whilst also helping your pockets stay full with pounds. Here’s why investing money into diamonds is a good move for you.

Diamonds don’t have to be white and clear – they can come in a variety of colours and character that is unknown to many. These distinct diamonds may pluck up your interest this year.

The Enigma diamond which weighs an astounding 555.55 carats is going up for auction at Sotheby’s next week. Theorized to be from outer space and consisting of miniature diamonds, its one-of-a-kind.

On Tuesday, January 11, Machine Gun Kelly proposed to the iconic Megan Fox with a gorgeous bespoke toi et moi ring. the glowing actress received two engagement rings bearing the couples birthstones.

High-street jewellers offer the same carbon copies of designs and stones which you could find anywhere. Stretch your creativity with these bespoke design ideas.

If you’re unsure of which jewellery metal to go for, and want to know the pros and cons of each – read more to boost your confidence and discover exactly which metal to choose for your next buy.

If you want some tips or ways of embodying the Christmas spirit this weekend, here is a reminder of the most fabulous Christmas jewellery trends you can adorn.

We’re trying to take more responsibility for our actions and protect our environment – so lets look into ways we can make responsible jewellery choices this year.

The December birthstones are all blue gems: Turquoise, Zircon and Tanzanite. The later of these is perhaps the most unknown but the most magical – Let touch on the wonders of tanzanite.

This fantastic stone has a bountiful history and has been worn by some fantastical historical women. Read more about The Tiffany Diamond and how yellow fancy diamonds are often overlooked.

Here are a few of the most dazzling jewellery movie moments that you have to pop onto your TV this season.

Sometimes it can be tricky trying to find the right gift for your loved one – Here is an easy Christmas jewellery gift guide that will guarantee happiness this season.

As many of you November-born babies will know, this month’s stones are the Topaz and Citrine. Lets witness the different varieties of these November birthstones and their gorgeous variations.

Liddicoatite tourmalines host breathtaking geometric colour zoning in alternating colours and designs. It’s the October birthstone so rare and sought after that they’re almost impossible to come by…

When searching for your next jewellery piece, you may be at a cross roads in terms of choosing a crisp diamond or not. Lets weigh up the pros and cons of diamonds vs. coloured gemstones.

Want to accessorise with the latest trends this autumn but have no idea where to start? Here’s a quick and easy gemstone and jewellery guide for this fall, so you can dress to impress.

Every single opal is individual and unique to its other opal siblings, simply because of this spectacular ‘play of colour’ optical effect – but what is the science behind this, and why are its colours so unique?

In the 1850’s, Spanish conqueror Conquistador believed that below the great Lake Guatavita in Sesquile laid hidden treasures beyond belief. He was miraculously right, discovering riches beyond belief…

Trapiche emeralds are a unique rarity, so beautiful and sought after within the gemstone trade that they sell for an equally pretty price.

A 2021 Guide to Engagement Ring Styles Shopping for an engagement ring can certainly be an exciting time, it can also be a little overwhelming if you’ve never done so before. That’s why the team of London bespoke jewellery experts from London DE are here to help make things easier on you. Here we’ve collected […]

Some diamonds are so notorious that they have now hit the history books. Let’s have a look at ten of the world’s most famous diamonds, and what brought them to the limelight.

Why Choose a Coloured Gemstone Engagement Ring? These days, one of the most popular trends when it comes to engagement rings is trading the more traditional diamond stones for something vibrant and colourful. Coloured gemstone engagement rings are taking the stage for many different reasons. At London DE, we carry a number of different coloured […]

Hottest 2021 Engagement Ring Trends These days, London DE is seeing a lot of different engagement ring trends, some are brand new, and others are a return to more classic styles. If you’re getting ready to propose to your partner or you’re shopping for engagement rings together, we’ve collected some of the hottest 2021 trends […]

Our extravagant adornments we see and wear today had humble beginnings as ancient jewellery, starting off what we could consider to be one of the first fashion trends.

It seems as the years progress and couples become more financially stable, as well as popping the question later on in life, proposal plans have evolved to be more extravagant and extraordinary. Some people just want a lowkey proposal at home so that its intimate and stress free, but others want to commemorate the moment […]

So, it has come to the time where you’re thinking of popping the question to the person you love, but you’re ultimately lost for the best way to go about it. Some people like the simplistic route of at home in front of the TV, or in a beautiful park in a secluded corner, bringing […]

At some point in our lives we have thought about the big question; whether that its reminiscing on how it happened to you, how you did it to someone else, how you’re going to do it, or you dream proposal. Someone kneeling down on one knee, the look of love in their eyes, the shock […]

As we now approach the close of July which hosts the magnificent ruby as its birthstone, it seems only fair to admire its exquisite properties and the price people pay to get their hands on one just as exquisite.

It takes years of studying and precision practice to perfect the incredible art of gemstone polishing, and yet these talented tradesmen hide behind their creations completely unknown.

In the height of the summer season, it makes sense that the July birthstone is that of the fiery ruby – full of life, charm, and energizing character. Since ancient times, the ruby has sat at the thrown of gemstones with very little rivals to its colour and character, unlike other popular gemstones which can […]

As I am sure you have seen online whilst doing your regular rounds of jewellery window shopping, there is a new coated metal floating around called ‘gold vermeil’. It seems to have popped up everywhere with all of us being none-the-wiser and taken the online and high street markets by storm. But what is gold […]

Kate Middleton is always the one to watch for style when she ventures to an event. Ever since her courting with Prince William in St Andrews, followers of the princess look up to her fabulous outfits and combinations with jewellery in hopes to copy her beautiful silhouette. Just like the other women within the royal […]

So, you’ve finally decided it’s time to take your relationship one step further by purchasing an engagement ring. Congratulations! But if you want to buy sapphires, having a bit of extra advice to help you through the process can make it much easier to choose the best stone for your ring. That’s why the team […]

This year’s Wimbledon games is long anticipated after its sad cancellation last year. We have all missed seeing those fresh green turfed courts, iconic tennis whites, the pop of the ball against the wired rackets, all whilst eating some plump strawberries with fresh double cream. However, for those more intricate observers out there, there is […]

These days, when it comes to choosing an engagement ring, there are a lot of options out there. For some, having such a wide variety makes things a bit easier; for others, it makes it a little overwhelming. If you have a specific vision for your engagement ring or you want to get one that’s […]

Are you looking to buy rubies for a personalised piece of jewellery? Perhaps you’re just shopping around to see what’s out there. Either way, there are some important considerations you likely want to make before you buy rubies, which is why the team from London DE is here to help. But before giving you some […]

With the glorious sunshine, luscious green fields and cocktails in the garden, June brings us the fabulous feelings and emotions of summer. Hosting our summer solstice, it’s the first month in the year we can show off our floaty clothes and make the most of the wonderfully long days, warm colours and sunshine. In contrast […]

As we approach the Queen’s official 95th birthday, what a fantastic way to reminisce on her life than to dote on the impressive crown she wears upon her head. This gorgeous piece that was exquisitely designed and crafted sits within The Tower of London and is looked upon in awe by its many visitors. (The […]

Through the decades the Queen has never failed to stun us with her impressive jewellery collection, pairing spectacular pieces with her tailored outfits which give her an air of sophistication and glamour. In a homage to her upcoming birthday on the 12th June, this blog will be showcasing some of her stunning sets that have […]

Gold is a beautiful commodity which sadly does not come mined from the ground without its consequences.

When searching for the perfect gemstone to include in your jewellery, whether that be within a diamond or an emerald, you may think that the best option…

May’s birthstone holds a vibrant rich green colour which symbolises love and the rebirth of spring in all its glory. Its no surprise that the Emerald is adored by many across the world

For centuries, emeralds have been some of the most highly-sought after gemstones in the world.

Buying an engagement ring is certainly something that, for many, is a first-time thing.

Those of you who are born within the month of April are blessed with the most fabulous of gemstones – the diamond.

Nowadays, with modern technology, shopping for loose gemstones couldn’t be easier. Many of the world’s leading jewellers, London DE included, boast e-commerce sites that make shopping for loose gemstones a breeze.

Emerald jewellery has been popular for centuries, but have you ever stopped to wonder precisely why?

As a symbol of eternal and all-encapsulating love, it is no surprise that the diamond solitaire is one of the most popular when it comes to an engagement band of choice.

Simple yet stunning on everyone – the timeless tennis bracelet is a transitional piece of jewellery with symmetrical diamonds lining its exterior in a serpentine-like design, adorning the wrist with a subtle sparkle.

From its discovery in February 2020 by excavation of a new deposit in Afghanistan, several kilograms of pink disapore have been reported with faceted stones being created holding a breath-taking 50 carats.

From a very special engagement ring as a memento of love, to the large and grand stones displayed on royal crowns, diamonds are seen across the globe in bountiful supply – but where did this sparkling craze originate from?

For those in the jewellery market looking to create their own engagement rings or other pieces, buying loose diamonds online is something many will likely consider. However, if you haven’t purchased loose diamonds online before, having some tips about the buying process can certainly help. That’s why London DE Fine Jewellery has put together some […]

As we pass the doorway into spring, we see not one but two birthstones which symbolise this life-bringing season. Aquamarine and Bloodstone are two very contrasting gemstones in the month of March, both with their unique properties and attributes.

For years, rubies have been historically referred to as the “King of Precious Gems,” attracting the eye of many around the world. With such a vibrant colour, it’s no wonder that they remain one of the world’s most attractive loose gemstones. However, if you want to buy rubies, there are some things you might want […]

It might be somewhat surprising to hear, but most of today’s high-quality diamonds are actually sold loose. Unlike buying diamonds already set in a ring, loose diamonds provide many more choices to customize your jewellery, allowing you to choose your own size, shape, and quality. Then, you can simply design your ideal piece of jewellery […]

With recent technologies allowing labs to produce synthetic gemstones and place them alongside authentic gems, it has broadened the gemstone market and made some precious stones more widely available – but are they just as good as the real deal?

We compare the variety of cuts of emeralds and how they affect the gemstones characteristics, as well as its carat content, price, and how desirable it is.

February’s birthstone of Amethyst has tranquil and balancing properties that are just what we need in lockdown days, and act as a little sparkle to what may be a normal day in your life.

There’s always a good reason to buy jewellery but Valentine’s Day is one of the best. In our 2021 Valentine’s Day gift guide, discover specially selected jewels that will make the perfect gift for your loved one.

Celebrate the new year by getting creative with your engagement ring. Draw inspiration for your own creation from these unique celebrity engagement rings.

When imagining the colours associated with the last month of the year, people tend to think of Christmassy reds and greens, however; December’s birthstones are much more representative of its wintery chill.

The countdown to Christmas has well and truly begun, so, in the hopes of preventing any extra stress to an already stressful year, we have put together our definitive Christmas gift guide for 2020.

In-person shopping for jewellery is something that will always take precedence; however, 63% of shopping begins online and it is finalised there too. Digital PR has thus become an important tool for jewellers in recreating a similarly enjoyable shopping experience, except virtually.

When most people think of coloured gemstones they tend to focus on green, red and blue (emerald, ruby and sapphire) but it is possible to buy stones in the full colour spectrum and even ones that continue multiple colours. Here’s our complete guide to coloured gemstone engagement rings.

Lucara Diamond Corp. have just unearthed an unbroken high white clivage diamond, weighing an impressive 998 carats – making it the fourth largest diamond in the world.

The closure of Rio Tinto’s Argyle mine in Western Australia has been touted for many years but by the end of 2020, after almost 4 decades of production, it will finally come to pass.

As the gradual thawing of relations between Israel and some of its Arab neighbours continues, one of the more unlikely consequences has been a direct trade deal between Israel and Dubai’s diamond bourses.

In recent years we’ve seen the rise of lab-made diamonds but now, Dale Vince, renewable energy tycoon and founder of green energy provider Ecotricity, is taking synthetic jewels sky high.

The best way to determine whether a diamond is real or not is to take it to a professional gemmologist or jeweller. However, if you’re too curious to wait, these are the tests that you can do at home to determine it for yourself.

She’s been fashion’s muse since dominating the runways in the 90’s and has been the muse of many designers. But now, with her debut high jewellery collection, in collaboration with luxury French jewellers Messika, Kate Moss is the one behind the designs.

One person who knows all about what it takes to start your own business is London DE’s founder, Philip Spencer. In a recent interview with High Profile Magazine, Phil explores the motivations behind starting his business and draws upon on his experience so far.

As another season takes hold, it brings another wealth of trends to consider. These are the industry approved Autumn/Winter trends taking place this year.

In August we launched a competition to give away a pair of diamond earrings worth £1,000 to one lucky person. We received over 2,500 entries from people worldwide, and we’re delighted to now reveal the winner!

Continuing our insight into the September birthstone and celebrating the end of the month, we have put together the world’s three most famous and luxurious sapphire jewels.

From the Ancient Egyptians to the Duchess of Cambridge’s engagement ring, sapphires have been the object of fascination for the richest and most noble figures of society. We explore this September birthstone in more detail.

Colombian emeralds are notorious for being the most prestigious in the world. Throughout history, these vivid green gems have been chosen to adorn the finest jewels for both royalty and the rich and famous. Here are three luxurious jewels that are famed for their Colombian emeralds.

Choosing an engagement ring is a daunting process, with so many things to consider that it is hard to know where to start. Here are the things you should be thinking about.

The diamond is currently being assessed by ALROSA’s specialists before a decision will be made on its future. While we wait, let’s look back at some of the world’s largest diamonds ever found, and what became of them.

With a variety of shapes available, choosing the right cut for your engagement ring can be an overwhelming process. In the hopes to help ease this, we have put together a selection of the most popular rounded cuts on offer and the reasons as to why they’re so special!

With a variety of shapes available, choosing the right cut for your engagement ring can be an overwhelming process. In the hopes to help ease this, we have put together a selection of the most popular square cuts on offer and the reasons as to why they’re so special!

Christie’s Hong Kong held a charity auction to raise money for frontline Covid-19 healthcare workers and, with the sale of just three jewels, raised $338,781. The one-of-a-kind creations were crafted by Anna Hu, a New York-based jewellery designer who is a rising star in the industry.

An array of spectacular high jewellery designs were showcased at this year’s Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week, with vibrant colours taking centre stage.

This week the Phillips Jewels & Jadeite Auction was a marvel for all jewellery lovers. Here are our pick of the top standout jewels.

As pride month draws to a close, we take a look back at some of the world’s most vibrant jewels that make up the colours of the rainbow.

London has a rich and varied history dating back to Roman times and the archaeological records show that jewellery production dates to at least this period, evidenced by the discovery of the Temple of Mithras near the Bank of England.

Whilst it is true to say that ultra-high net worth individuals are usually the last people to notice a global crisis, it is striking just how robust demand for fine jewellery and fine grade coloured gemstones has remained during the pandemic.

We explore the discovery of the Cheapside Hoard, and the rich history of Hatton Garden – London’s famous jewellery quarter.

At London DE we focus on the finest grade gemstones and coloured gemstones from around the world, including Colombian emeralds. Read our guide on emeralds and the 4C’s.

India has for many years been a powerhouse of the global gemstone and jewellery industry and it is now reopening for business, including international business.

It seems likely that the coming weeks and months will see a gradual loosening of the current lockdown measures, potentially enabling many jewellers to start to return to face-to-face trade perhaps as early as next month.

Founded from a passion for gemstones, London DE has become the hallmark of custom design jewellery. Charlotte Wiseman from Abode2 meets company owner and diamond devotee, Philip Spencer.

Emeralds have adorned the jewellery collections of the rich and powerful dating back to the ancient civilisations, and are recognised as the birthstone of May.

Every new business needs its niche and every entrepreneur needs passion and vision. Start-up jeweller London DE established the USP to offer coloured gemstone jewellery that is tailored to the customer, ethically sourced, transparent and traceable, all the way from source.

Handwashing and hygiene have suddenly and abruptly come to the fore in recent weeks but one area that has been largely overlooked is that of maintaining the hygiene and cleanliness of your jewellery, which can harbour potentially dangerous germs and viruses.

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) have recognised the global kudos associated with the quality and integrity of British craftsmanship and embodied it with its new “Created in the UK” accreditation.

A recent study by market research firm Edelman has shown what perhaps may seem obvious to many that jewellery brands must not prioritise commercial considerations over those of people affected by the pandemic.

Coloured gemstones are the luxury must-have fashion trend, but customers shouldn’t have to choose between fair trade and fair prices, writes London DE’s Phil Spencer.

From Cleopatra to Angelina Jolie, through Maharajas and Catherine the Great, emerald engagement rings and jewellery have been a must have for celebrity ladies.

There is a growing trend among consumers to want something bespoke, something personal and something which no one else has when it comes to buying jewellery. Bespoke is clearly gaining momentum, as people move away from impersonal, off-the-shelf jewellery towards unique and one-of-a-kind pieces that truly represent their individuality.

From coloured stones to pearls, we explore the top celebrity engagement ring trends of 2020.

Just a few short weeks ago we were all going about our daily business as usual. However, in these strange unprecedented times we all now find ourselves in, working from home will become the new ‘normal; for most of us for the foreseeable future, and our team at London DE Fine Jewellery is no exception.

Continuing the trend from 2019, in which almost 50% of engagement ring sales were of personalised creations, bespoke remains king in 2020.

We explore the jewellery trends of the Duchess of Sussex as she steps down as HRH.

The impact of the coronavirus outbreak will be far reaching, and the jewellery industry certainly isn’t immune.

Entrepreneur and London DE founder Phil Spencer was in Sydney for the Emergence 2020 investment event, highlighting expansion opportunities in the coloured gems market.

Ethics and traceability are paramount for millennials shopping for precious stones – and that is changing the jewellery business for the better.

With efforts continuing to contain Coronavirus, now might not seem the right time to consider gemstone opportunities in China, but the country is a focus for London DE founder Phil Spencer.

For centuries alchemists have tried, unsuccessfully, to create gold from base metals. It seems that in modern times science has managed to achieve what was once seen as impossible and create diamonds in a laboratory!

For centuries the great royal houses have adorned themselves with some of the finest and most vibrant jewellery ever created.

If you want to bowl over your partner this Valentines, why not choose a gift that will last a lifetime rather than a few days? It often helps to start with a concept, a budget and rough design idea. The internet and social media provide an endless source of inspiration and themes but the humble […]

1) Why choose colour? Coloured gemstone engagement rings have received a real boost from the “Kate” effect, in reference the Duchess of Cambridge’s 12 carat Kashmir sapphire and diamond halo engagement ring (once owned by Diana, Princess of Wales). This phenomenon is nothing new, in 1796 Napoleon Bonaparte proposed to the future Empress Joséphine with […]

Coloured gemstones are becoming increasingly desirable luxury fashion items. In particular the ‘big-3’ (ruby, sapphire and emerald) are featuring in the designs and collections of the foremost fine jewellery houses. Colombia is the world’s most prolific producer of fine quality emeralds but they are also found in Brazil, Zambia, Zimbabwe, East Africa and the Swot […]

For centuries people have relied upon visiting a jeweller’s shop to find a suitable engagement ring. This limited you to one of the examples held in the shop’s inventory and bespoke engagement rings were a rarity. In the twenty-first century the rise of digital channels has opened up a world of possibility for a truly […]

The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin for ‘water of the sea,’ and it has long been associated with the colour and mythology of the ocean.

Amethyst is probably the most well known and easily identifiable purple gemstone. In the ancient past they were held in equal regard to diamonds and the ‘big three’ coloured gemstones (ruby, sapphire and emerald) and were at one time the reserve of royalty.

When people think of garnet they often regard it as a form of less expensive “ruby” but this belies the true character and value of this intriguing coloured gemstone. Garnet is a species of gemstone in its own right, derived from a collection of closely related minerals that come in a variety of colours.

In November 2018 a new world record price per carat was set at auction for a pink diamond when the “Winston Pink Legacy went under the hammer, achieving US$2.6 million per carat.

Opal and tourmaline are the dual birthstones for the month of October. Opal is also the stone associated with the fourteenth wedding anniversary.

Most people automatically associate sapphire with the blue variety but they are in fact found in the full spectrum of colour.

For many centuries spinel has been mistaken for ruby, as its physical appearance and colour are obviously similar.

Ruby is widely recognised as the July birthstone. It has been revered for millennia by many different cultures, including the Mogul dynasties of ancient India who referred to it as the “king of gemstones.” Akin to sapphire, ruby is a member of corundum family.

Alexandrite has often been referred to as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” thanks to its unique colour shifts between shades of green and red. The closer the colours are to pure green and red, and the greater the contrast between the two colours, the higher the value of the stone. The transition between the […]

Moonstone is the second in our trio of articles examining the June birthstones. The name is derived from the ‘moon like’ appearance of the light refracted from the micro-structure of feldspar layers on the stone’s surface, otherwise known as lamellae.

As spring advances towards summer and the trees steadily regain their foliage, it is perhaps appropriate that emerald is the May birthstone.

One of the intriguing things about birthstones is the fact there is no unanimous agreement on what each one should be and most sources site multiple stones for the same month! Different cultures have developed differing birthstone calendars and these have often been revised and changed over the years.

One of the intriguing things about birthstones is the fact there is no unanimous agreement on what each one should be and most sources site multiple stones for the same month! Different cultures have developed differing birthstone calendars and these have often been revised and changed over the years.

For 101 years the small Swiss town of Basel has hosted what has become the biggest annual watch and jewellery spectacle on earth.

Last June an 18.04 carat Colombian emerald fetched US$5.5 million when it went under the hammer at Christie’s.

Aquamarine, as the name suggests, is a gemstone that has long been associated with sailors and the sea. For many centuries aquamarine was thought to have protective powers and the ability to improve a person’s health.

Founded in 2013, London DE Limited (“The Company”) is a UK based supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones to the global market place, supplying all levels of the supply chain with loose stones and bespoke jewellery.

Crypto currency, including Bitcoin, has been making headlines for almost a decade, since it was first conceived by a mysterious programmer in 2009. However, its uptake in the jewellery and gemstone industry has been rather slow.

Amethyst, the birthstone of February, is an enigmatic stone that is found in a range of hues from deep reddish purple to pale lilac. It is a crystalline quartz that sits at a relatively hard 7-8 on the (1-10) Moh’s scale and as such it is a fairly easy stone to look after.

Emeralds have been growing in popularity for some time but it is the Colombian variety that have seen the greatest increases in value over recent years. A good example of this comes from Rayaz Takat, CEO of New York based Takat

As the queen celebrates the sapphire jubilee of her coronation in 1953, the Crown Jewels are receiving more public interest than at any time in their history.

As the festive period starts to recede into memory, thoughts turn in earnest to the year that lies ahead. We have researched the published material of industry insiders to shine a light on what may lie in store for the jewellery market trends that develop in 2018.

Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon until 1972, is a fast growing island economy in the Indian Ocean. Almost a decade on from the conclusion of its 30 year civil war, the island is becoming a Mecca for gem dealers and tourists alike.

Having closed in 1998, the Welsh mine that produced the gold for three generations of royal weddings, including those of the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret, Princes Anne, Diana, Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Cambridge, is set to reopen this year.

Alexandrite is famous for the fact that it can change colour, appearing bluish-green in daylight and reddish-pink by indoor lamplight. The value of this stone increases with the distinctness of the colour shift.

After more than a century of the domination of diamonds, coloured stones are returning to the fore. References to the value of coloured gemstones can be traced back to ancient history, including descriptions in the bible such as “she is more precious than rubies,” when referring to a virtuous wife.

It was recently announced in a press conference chaired by Martin Rapaport that the Peace Diamond has been purchased by Laurence Graff, of Graff Diamonds, from the government of Sierra Leone for US$6.5 million

Red is one of the most evocative primary colours, conjuring powerful images in our imagination of fire, heat, excitement and passion. So it is little wonder that the most popular colour for high performance cars (not least Ferraris) is red!

Christmas is, famously, a time for giving. It has now overtaken Valentine’s Day as the peak time of year for marriage proposals and more people than ever before are choosing to give their loved ones festive jewellery gifts.

The world famous Swiss luxury jeweller de GRISOGONO was founded in 1993 by black diamond specialist Fawaz Gruosi and it is known affectionately by its high clientele simply as ‘de Gris.’ Their most recent creation

Prior to the advent of modern gemmological testing, many gemstones were mistakenly identified as something they were not. Eduard Gübelin (1913-2005), the ‘father’ of modern gemmology, was the man widely accredited with devising the laboratory techniques to distinguish one stone from another.

We are an internationally recognised specialist bespoke jeweller and dealer of natural Colombian emeralds, sapphires, rubies and other coloured gemstones, diamonds and coloured diamonds.

Key to understanding how the gem trade operates are the tiers in its complex supply chain. According to industry expert Jim Grahl, these can be roughly broken down as follows:

Key to understanding how the gem trade operates are the tiers in its complex supply chain. According to industry expert Jim Grahl, these can be roughly broken down as follows:

(An example of a unique four stone custom made ring designed by LDE for a bespoke customer) Bespoke engagement rings have never been more popular and now account for almost half of all those sold, both in the UK and elsewhere. More and more couples are now looking for a unique, one-of-a- kind, showstopper to […]

In what is set to be the most exciting gem auction of 2017, the largest D-colour flawless diamond ever put under the hammer, at 163.41 carats, will be on sale on 14th November at Christie’s Geneva.

With Christmas on the horizon many of us start to turn our attention to the annual question of what to buy our nearest and dearest.

Are diamonds still a girl’s best friend? It may surprise you that right up until the early twentieth century around 50% of engagement rings featured coloured gems and 50% diamonds.

Thailand is a medium ranking regional power among the South East Asian economies but it is showing signs of rapid economic development beyond its tradition staples of tourism, agriculture and fisheries.

The coloured gemstone mining industry is going through a revolution, shifting irreversibly away from artisanal mining towards large scale mechanised production. This is being propelled by the increasing participation of larger mining entities and the enhanced formalisation of the industry.

Emeralds have been one of the best performing gemstones in recent years and their increasing prices have been well documented but the fine art of successfully buying and selling these beguiling stones is a lesser known industry secret.

  (Beryl can be found in a range of colours and hues) The beryl family comprises stones of beryllium aluminium cyclosilicate, the best known examples of which are aquamarine and emerald. However there are also many other sub-classes to this multi-coloured family that are starting to grow in popularity. Pure beryl is actually colourless but […]

The popularity of sapphires has never been greater, perhaps due in part to Prince William’s decision to propose to Kate Middleton with the sapphire engagement ring of his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. In addition to superstar celebrity and royal endorsement, the young and increasingly economically powerful millennial generation …

(An example of an Ethiopian opal recently won from the earth)  In recent years exciting new deposits of precious and semi-precious stones have been reported from this ancient, but long troubled, African nation. The country is known to have significant deposits of at least nine gemstones: opal; corndium, beryl, garnet, peridot, quartz species and tourmaline. […]

Within the gemstone mining industry, Mogok is unique for the variety of types of production found here, each tailored for the local geology. These include alluvial mining of the gem-bearing gravel, known as byon, and the hard rock mining of spinel and ruby from the marble deposits themselves.

Coloured gems are enjoying a renaissance at the moment and of the “big three” (emerald, ruby & sapphire) emeralds are shining especially brightly. At the route of this phenomenon is a virtuous circle of consistency of supply from fresh mining sites in Zambia, Brazil and most notably Colombia

Iconic business leader and self made billionaire Richard Branson recently stated “every business we have was set up to disrupt a market with products or services that make a real difference to people’s lives.”

With a market capitalisation of $41 million AUD, Mustang Resources in one of just two listed ruby mining companies in the world. Their main rival and African mining neighbour, Gemfields PLC, has a market cap of $433 million US, and some are pointing to the potential future growth of Mustang Resources to this scale in the foreseeable future.

The world renowned Pink Star diamond has now officially become the world’s most valuable gemstone of all time, fetching an eye-watering $71.2 million (£57.3 million / $553 million HKD) at auction. The event was held by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong, who had estimated its pre-auction value at $60 million (£48.3 million).

A unique set of Gübelin certified Colombian emerald jewellery from: https://londonde.com/ It is the long held opinion of most industry experts that the finest emeralds on earth are of Colombian origin. However, for many years it was almost impossible to ascertain with certainty the true origin of any given stone to a high degree of […]

All businesses have one thing in common, they all require investment to succeed. In the past, that often involved a formal meeting with a bank manager to discuss a business loan and overdraft facility. However, since the financial crash of the late 2000s, all that has now changed and peer-to-peer lending and investing has become the new springboard for start-up and grow-up enterprises.

Mogok consists of a collection of gemstone producing areas in Burma (Myanmar), sometimes referred to as the “Valley of Rubies,” a name immortalised by the book Mogok, the Valley of Rubies, authored by Joseph Kessel and Stella Rodway.

On 25th April 2017 history will be made at Guernsey’s auction house in New York as it hosts the sale of what is thought to be the world’s most valuable private collections of emeralds, the Marcial de Gomar collection.

Until fairly recently spinel was a largely unrecognised gem in relatively low demand. Lately the growth of coloured gems, including rubies, has lead to a renaissance in the appreciation for this richly coloured gem and its fascinating history.

In 2016 the global e-commerce market grew to a staggering $1.85 trillion US, driven largely by increasing internet use in emerging markets, most notably India and China.

Marketing, advertising and PR have long been the cornerstones of any successful brand but the inclusion of celebrity endorsement in particular has taken centre stage in recent years.

It may sound obvious that the most sought after characteristic of an engagement ring or piece of fine jewellery is its ‘sparkle’ but unearthing that illusive quality is not as straight forward as you might think.

Just 30 years ago Paraíba tourmalines were completely undiscovered, now they are one of the most coveted of all gemstones. They were unearthed in 1988 by Heitor Dimas Barbosa, a man who had spent years digging in the hills of the Brazilian sate of Paraíba, based upon information that a very rare and highly prized gem was to be found there.

Founded in 1837 In Brookly, Connecticut as a “stationery and fancy goods emporium” by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young, “Tiffany, Young & Ellis” were one of the earliest luxury brands to establish themselves in the then nascent United States of America.

Joel Arthur Rosenthal was born in the Bronx, New York City in 1943 as the only child of a postman and a school biology teacher. He is famous for his founding of the French fine jewellery house JAR in Paris in 1978.

Over the years there have been some extraordinary auctions of fine jewellery collections. The world’s largest auction houses, Christies’s, Sotherby’s and Bonham’s, date back to the eighteenth century and they originally came to prominence for their sales of rare books and art, before diversifying into jewels and rare gemstones.