If you love all the gemological goodies that the Smithsonian Institution—the world’s largest museum
complex and research organization, comprising 19 museums, nine research
centers, and the National Zoo—has to offer, then you’ll love what QVC has persuaded
it to do: collaborate on an inspired collection of jewels available
for as little as $66 retail.
Tune into a two-hour QVC broadcast Tuesday, Sept. 14, from
7:00–9:00 p.m. EST, where interviews with “a Smithsonian gemologist and a
museum curator” (Russell
Feather and Jeffrey
Post, perhaps?) will take place, according to an Associated Press report.
The Smithsonian Institution, National Gem Gallery collection
is QVC’s way of celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Smithsonian’s National
Museum of Natural History. Among the items available for purchase: a specially
designed ring from Judith Ripka inspired by the Smithsonian’s own Blue Heart
Diamond. More inspired designs include the Louis Comfort Tiffany amethyst
necklace, the Empress Marie Louise diadem, and others from never-before-seen
pieces in the Smithsonian’s vault. All jewels will be made with natural
gemstones set in sterling silver and 14k gold.
Footage of some of the museum’s permanent jewels will help
viewers appreciate the inspired collection on QVC as well as better understand
the stories of the stones’ acquisitions.
The National Gem Collection in the Smithsonian’s National
Museum of Natural History is home to the finest collection of mineral
specimens, gems, and gemstone jewelry in the world. The publicly displayed
pieces and those held for research have been assembled almost entirely through
the generosity of private individuals, including the 1958 gift of the Hope
Diamond from Harry Winston. Today, the National Gem Collection consists of more
than 10,000 gems and jewelry pieces and continues to grow.
A piece of jewelry designed by Judith Ripka and inspired by
the Blue Heart Diamond will be offered for sale by QVC as part of its new
Smithsonian Institution, National Gem Gallery collection.
Photo by Chip Clark/The Smithsonian Institute Department of
Mineral Sciences
A gem-quality amethyst from Siberia was set into a necklace
by Tiffany & Co. and is the inspiration for a piece in the new Smithsonian
Institution, National Gem Gallery collection from QVC.
Photo by Chip Clark/The Smithsonian Institute Department of
Mineral Sciences
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