Miss California USA 2007 Meagan Tandy, and INTA Gems founders Jerry and Connie Pheng Young with their son Peter Young, presented the GIA Museum with INTA Gems’ “Vinissimo” ruby and diamond necklace Feb. 26.

INTA Gems is the official jeweler for Miss California USA and donated the necklace in honor of Tandy.

The Vinissimo necklace, a combination of 3.35 cts. of rubies and 1.3 cts. of diamonds set in 18k white gold, was created by Peter Young following a trip to Napa Valley, Calif.

“Vino” is the Latin root for wine and each component of the necklace was inspired by the California wine country. The diamond pear shapes represent the leaves of the vineyard. The circles symbolize the many round objects commonly seen in the Napa Valley – from the fermentation barrels and the wine bottles, to the fragrant corks. The red rubies signify the bountiful grapes and berries ripening on the sun-drenched vines.

INTA Gems, a fine diamond, gemstone, and jewelry company based in Los Angeles, was founded by Jerry and Connie Pheng Young in 1998.

For more information on how to donate in-kind gifts to the Institute’s Museum Collection, contact GIA In-Kind Gifts Director Patricia Syvrud at 760-603-4432 or by e-mail at patricia.syvrud@gia.edu.

JCK