The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recently examined a diamond the maker carved and faceted to resemble a panther’s face.
The GIA received a 67.18-carat stone at its laboratory in Mumbai, India, for an identification report. The carved piece features two green emeralds for eyes, according to an article in the summer issue of the institute’s quarterly journal, Gems & Gemology.
The item, which the organization inspected using Fourier-transform infrared absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy conducted at room temperature, revealed absorption features characteristic of a type Ia diamond. The two marquise mixed-cut, 0.27- and 0.29-carat Zambian emeralds had previously been submitted to GIA.
The owner told the GIA the piece, titled Jade Fang, took nearly a year to complete. The diamond originally weighed 113 carats and required advanced cutting tools to work around its heavy inclusions.
Unlike traditional cuts that use symmetry to enhance brilliance, unusual shapes such as this one present a unique challenge for cutters. The piece highlights how a diamond’s value extends beyond its gemological characteristics to include the artistry behind its creation, the GIA added.
Image: The carved panther’s face diamond. (Gemological Institute of America/Gourav Bera)
