Simply Abu Dhabi XXII

2 5 7 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I M oussaieff specialises in coloured diamonds and large, rare coloured stones. This specialism is both a personal passion and an innate skill, derived from a family with a long history in the high-end gems trade, dating back 800 years and originating in Bukhara, the main port of call on the famous silk route. Alisa Moussaieff, the head and mastermind of the business is the protector of an extraordinary family heritage and one of the most respected and influential players in the diamonds and precious stones market. Alisa always follows her instinct. She started collecting coloured diamonds in the 1960s, long before they were considered beautiful and when the GIA was teaching that colour in diamonds was a flaw. Now she has accumulated one of the most outstanding collections of coloured diamonds and also coloured stones that include ‘vibrant neon colour’ Paraiba tourmalines, natural pearls and natural colour changing purple sapphires, to name but a few. As the Creative Director, Alisa finds herself in a truly unique position, free to combine unconventional colours, textures and shapes according to her aesthetic sensitivities and accountable to no-one. She is not afraid to mix unusual materials or to try new manufacturing techniques and she loves to combine magnificent gems with a flamboyant and dynamic design – to create an individual and exceptional jewel to be treasured – a heritage piece of the future. Started in the 1850s by her husband’s grandfather, the Park Lane showroom opened in 1963 and quickly established a worldwide reputation for magnificent gems amongst collectors and connoisseurs. In 2006 the 1930s style art deco boutique at 172 New Bond Street was opened and further stores can be found in Geneva, Hong Kong and seasonally in Courchevel. The collections comprise some of the most unique and exceptional coloured gemstones such as (left) a three piece suite of Colombian emeralds 51cts and Thai rubies & ruby beads 933cts and (right) a necklace and earrings suite of Thai rubies 58cts and white diamonds 87cts. All in platinum and gold.