Gem Buying in Arizona

We are still dazzled from all that we saw during our gem buying trip to Tucson, AZ. This desert city comes alive every February as gem, mineral, and fossil exhibitors from across the globe gather to show their very finest pieces. After a two-year hiatus, we were beyond thrilled to return to this jewel in the desert.

Albeit enjoyable, the task of choosing gems for our collection can also be a daunting one, as there are literally thousands of gem and pearl merchants from which to choose. Which gem inspires the most creativity?  Which gems are we personally moved by?  Which pearl speaks the loudest to us?

At the top of our gem buying list was mint color tourmaline. This unique green/blue hue in tourmaline is natural, and is mined in only one place, Afghanistan. Even at a world market, it was difficult to find gems of the color and cut that met our strict specifications.

Some of the other beautiful gems we found include this duo of tourmalines. Both of unusual and natural color, the pinkish tone gem was sourced in Nigeria, the green in Afghanistan.

This delightful “citrus” pairing is comprised of spessartite garnet (orange) and peridot (chartreuse).

And this aquamarine and peridot are waiting to be set into the perfect design!

This is just a small sampling of a rather extensive collection that we purchased while in Tucson. Please contact us at 608-824-0392 if you are intrigued by any of these gems or if you would like to see the collection in its entirety.  In the relaxed setting of our gallery, we can showcase the gems, and share their rich history. 

Fascinating Minerals

While most of our time was spent searching for gems with which to create our fine jewelry, we also spent time exploring the wonderful world of fossils and minerals.  These natural specimens are truly awe inspiring. 

The Making of a Masterpiece

 The following images show the evolution of a custom design ametrine ring.

John meticulously carves the wax model of a ring, that will eventually be cast in gold. Sculpting in wax by hand and feeling the wax allows him infinite opportunity to evolve and perfect the design and vision.

The ametrine shown in this unique ring is of warm golden color with a nuance of purple, while also exhibiting exceptional optics.

The finished ring.

Conception of a Custom Design Engagement Ring

We wanted to share a glimpse into the process of creating a custom designed piece of jewelry with John/Christine Designs. From concept to completion we will work with you every step of the way to insure the piece will be a true treasure. 

Finding the perfect gem:

Rather than selecting a diamond, our clients (and their precious dog Abby) wished to explore the world of colored gems for their engagement ring. We arrived at sapphire, both for its broad range of color, as well as its durability.  John and Christine were able to source six sapphires, five blue and one “peacock” color.  Three gems were standard cushion cut, three were of a custom cutting style called concave faceting.  The custom cut “peacock” color sapphire was the easy winner for its unique color play of golden, green, and blue, as well as unique cutting style.

Defining the design:

After reviewing several design options, our clients decided on a classic, yet contemporary look.  A wax model was hand carved. During that process, we invited them back to the gallery at various stages of the wax carving to get their design feedback. With each meeting, the design was perfected.

John employs the age old method of lost wax casting.

Design Completion:

Next our client then has a chance to review the final wax design before casting.

The design is then cast in gold.

Finished Piece:
Once the casting is complete, the ring will be polished and the stone will be set. The culmination is a beautiful custom made piece of art to mark this momentous occasion. 

In case you were wondering...she said yes! 

Works of art in the works.

Aquamarine pendant, drusy pendant, Munsteiner cut citrine ring, tsavorite garnet pendant, and lapis cross.

Color Our World With Fine Gems

Just a small sampling of the loose gems in our artist “palette”.

Our recent gem buying spree!

We are inspired by the colors and dramatic shapes of the tourmalines and. aquamarine.

Grand Opening/ Benefit for Occupaws

Meet Topaz and Tundra and the wonderful volunteers from OccuPaws.

Minutes Before Our Grand Opening!

Halloween in downtown Middleton!

Our first event as Middleton merchants. We had a ball! We passed out about 700 pieces of candy to an array of super heroes, princesses, and everything in between!