Simply Abu Dhabi XXXI

“There is a finite amount of these rare stones on the planet, and the examples used in our Masterpieces are the finest of their type,” says Managing Director Charlie Pragnell, grandson of George Pragnell. “They are what we term in the trade ‘gems’ - a perfect example of that particular gemstone. They’re completely clean to the eye, very bright and lively, in the ideal colour for a stone from that mine.” Many of these rare gems are in British houses; precious heirlooms that have been passed down since they were first discovered in the late 19th century. Pragnell’s reputation as the trusted jeweller to British families means we have unrivalled access to these precious, historic stones. Some are set in exquisite antique jewels. Whether signed by a notable house or created by an anonymous artist, pieces that stand the test of time become part of Pragnell’s antique and period collection. Other stones need freeing from their current setting in order to showcase their true beauty. The finest examples become Pragnell Masterpieces. The design of each Masterpiece begins with the acquisition of a rare gem; whether it’s hundreds of years old, or an exceptional new discovery. Each one is selected by Charlie Pragnell, along with his cousin TomCrookenden, who draw on their expertise as GIA-trained gemmologists along with the intrinsic knowledge that comes from growing up surrounded by beautiful stones. Working closely with their team, Charlie and Tom discuss and sketch designs that will best showcase the magnificence of the gem. The agreed sketch is turned into a detailed gouache, before being translated into a 3DCAD design and passed on to a master goldsmith: a marriage of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques. In the workshop, gemstone and artistry combine to create a rare jewel worthy of the title ‘Masterpiece’. Each one takes between three months and two years to create, through constant dialogue between goldsmith and designer. Finally, Masterpieces are individually numbered and stamped with the Pragnell Seal, which together guarantee the jewel is one-of-a-kind, handcrafted in Great Britain. “The demand for the rarest of all of nature’s wonders is continually increasing, so there is certainly a significant return on rarity,” says Charlie Pragnell. “But jewellery is more than an investment. Jewellery is the permanent embodiment of memories and emotions. It’s art, not fashion. Our Masterpieces are beautiful, timeless pieces of jewellery that encapsulate this essence.” Pragnell R a r e j e w e l s , h a n d c r a f t e d i n G r e a t B r i t a i n Fancy Coloured Diamond Cocktail Ring in Platinum This matchless jewel has set within its navette form not one not two but three exceptionally rare coloured diamonds. The fancy vivid pink 0.50ct, the fancy intense blue-green 0.50ct and the fancy intense yellow 0.52ct have each been placed meticulously within a myriad of other fancy coloured and white diamonds. The shoulders have been delicately set with baguette cut white diamonds to complete the design. The total diamond weight for this stunning Masterpiece is 5.6cts all set in platinum. This rare and important jewel has been conceived and crafted in Pragnell workshops from design to diamond setting and represents a wonderful addition to the Masterpiece collection. Price: POA www.pragnell.co.uk Rose Gold Falcon Ring, Onyx Black and Brown Diamonds Captivating 18ct Rose Gold and Black Onyx Falcon Ring. Set with 962 Brown and Black Diamonds totalling 4.25ct. Price: POA www.pragnell.co.uk 1 0 4 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I White Gold Cushion Cut Pink Sapphire and Diamond Ring 18ct White Gold 11.07ct Cushion cut unheated Sri Lankan Pink Sapphire Ring. The diamond set surround features 5.58cts of Rose cut Pear Diamonds and is finished with 0.72cts Brilliant cut Diamond Pavé set Shoulders. Price: POA www.pragnell.co.uk