Grading

Navneet Gems Introduces Portrait-Cut Rubies

GradingSep 20, 2023

Navneet Gems Introduces Portrait-Cut Rubies

The geometric collection is on view now at the Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong Show.

Navneet Gems and Minerals portrait-cut ruby
Thailand-based gemstone manufacturer Navneet Gems and Minerals has launched a new collection of portrait-cut Mozambique rubies.
Bangkok—Navneet Gems and Minerals has revealed a new collection of portrait-cut rubies. 

The gemstones, which the Thailand-based manufacturer unveiled at the Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong show happening now, are fashioned into portrait cuts weighing between 0.5 carats and 2 carats. 

The portrait cut, seen most commonly in diamonds, is also called a lasque. It’s a thin, flat cut with a large table and slight facets on the side. In rubies, the red hue is seen through the table. 

“Just as red diamonds are exceptionally rare, high-quality rubies with intense red color are also relatively scarce. Opting for an unheated ruby portrait-cut can be an excellent choice for those who appreciate something rare and distinctive,” said Navneet Agarwal, marketing manager of Navneet Gems & Minerals. 


The rough rubies are hand-selected from Mozambique ruby mining company Fura Gems. The gemstones are later cut and polished in Thailand. 

Agarwal said the cutting process, which requires specialized skills and high levels of precision, has taken years to master. It’s part of why portrait cuts in rubies and other gem categories are still relatively niche, he said. 

“Gem cutters must meticulously plan and execute each cut, while minimizing wastage of the valuable material. Unheated rubies can have inclusions and imperfections within them [which] can make the cutting process highly challenging. Gem cutters must carefully work around them to avoid damaging the stone or compromising its structural integrity,” Agarwal said. 

“The process of preforming, cutting and polishing a portrait cut involves removing significant portions of the gem's material, which can increase the risk of fractures or breakage, especially if there are internal stress points within the stone.” 

 Related stories will be right here … 


Portrait-cut diamonds boast a long history rooted in ancient Indian jewelry making. They were sometimes used to enhance and protect miniature paintings. 

“There’s an old-world feel which takes us back to the native cutting style from the Maharajas era, when they used to use a lot of portrait cuts,” said Agarwal. 

He cites rising demand for “individualistic jewelry and more economical choices” as part of his motivation for developing the new collection.  

“One has to adapt to changing consumer preferences by offering fresh options that go beyond traditional cuts. Portrait cuts are a creative and artistic way of shaping gemstones, including rubies, to create unique and intricate designs,” said Agarwal. 

Part of the cut’s appeal is also that its large surface area gives the illusion of a bigger gem, Agarwal said.  

“Portrait cuts give the impression of a bigger gemstone and promise a great value for money in terms of visual impact.”  


Lauren McLemoreis the associate editor, gemstones at National Jeweler, covering sourcing, pricing and other developments.
tags:

The Latest

Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show Bracelets
Supplier BulletinMay 08, 2024
Fusing Past and Present at the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show

Sponsored by the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show

Vikki Tobak
EditorsMay 07, 2024
Q&A: Author Vikki Tobak on the ‘Ice-Cold’ Exhibition

Tobak, author of “Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History,” shares how the exhibition came to be, and the pieces people may be surprised to see.

Cynthia Erivo, Zendaya, Lewis Hamilton at the Met Gala
EditorsMay 07, 2024
10 On-Theme Looks from the 2024 Met Gala

Stars adorned themselves in emeralds, platinum, and myriad bird motifs, writes Associate Editor Natalie Francisco.

Header image w logo.jpg
Brought to you by
From Registration to Return: 10 Tips to Protect You Before, During and After a Tradeshow

Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.

Rendering of M.S. Rau pop-up shop in Aspen, Colorado
IndependentsMay 07, 2024
112-Year-Old New Orleans Business Popping Up in Aspen

M.S. Rau is set to open a seasonal gallery in the high-end resort town early next month.

Weekly QuizMay 02, 2024
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these seven questions.
Take the Quiz
Vhernier Calla necklace rose gold and ebony
MajorsMay 07, 2024
Richemont Acquires Italian Jeweler Vhernier

The branded jewelry market is thriving, said Richemont Chairman Johann Rupert.

The six Couture Luminaries designers 2024
CollectionsMay 07, 2024
These ‘Luminaries’ Are Set to Light Up Couture

The six designers, all participants in the show’s Diversity Action Council mentorship program, will exhibit in Salon 634.

national-jeweler-top-image-v1.jpg
Brought to you by
Rio’s Reimagined Podcast: For the Love of Jewelers

Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.

Sylvester Stallone watch auction
AuctionsMay 07, 2024
Sotheby’s to Auction Sylvester Stallone’s Watches

The highlight of his collection is the coveted Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime, which could sell for up to $5 million.

Models Wearing Venetian Link Bracelets and Necklaces
CollectionsMay 07, 2024
Phillip Gavriel Pays Tribute to Venice With New Collection

The “Venetian Link” series modernizes the classic Veneziana box chain in its bracelets and necklaces.

Jewelers of America logo
Events & AwardsMay 07, 2024
JA Now Accepting Applications for New Bench Jeweler Scholarship

The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship will provide tuition assistance to two low-income students.

Rolex and Hallmark logos
Policies & IssuesMay 06, 2024
Rolex Files Objection to Hallmark’s New Trademark Application

The Swiss watchmaker said the company’s plans to use a new version of the Hallmark crown on jewelry would confuse consumers.

Anglo American executive Benny Oeyen
EditorsMay 06, 2024
Q&A: 8 Questions With Anglo American’s Benny Oeyen

The executive talked about the importance of self-purchasers and how fuel cell electric vehicles are going to fuel demand for platinum.

Opening of Malabar Gold & Diamonds store in Naperville Illinois
MajorsMay 06, 2024
Malabar Gold & Diamonds Opens 4th U.S. Showroom

The Indian jeweler’s new store in Naperville, Illinois marks its 350th location, part of its ongoing global expansion plans.

Ben Bridge Jeweler Logo
Events & AwardsMay 06, 2024
Ben Bridge Jeweler Accepting Applications for Lonia Tate Scholarship

It will award a graduating high school student with about $10,000 toward a GIA diploma and an internship with the Seattle-based jeweler.

Mug shots of murder suspects Michael McCormack and Charles Robinson Shay
CrimeMay 03, 2024
Second Suspect Arrested in Murder of Colorado Jeweler

Wheat Ridge, Colorado police took a 50-year-old man into custody Wednesday following a two-month search.

Five Platinum Pieces
CollectionsMay 03, 2024
A Sneak Peek Into PGI’s Couture Platinum Spotlight Program

PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.

Kristie Nicolosi
MajorsMay 03, 2024
Kristie Nicolosi Joins WJA Board Again

Nicolosi, president and CEO of The Kingswood Company, previously sat on WJA’s board from 2011 to 2018.

Karina Brez Bit of LUV Bracelet
CollectionsMay 03, 2024
Piece of the Week: A “Bit of LUV” for the Derby

Karina Brez’s race-ready piece is a sophisticated nod to the horse-rider relationship.

Stock image of handcuffs and gavel
CrimeMay 02, 2024
4 Indicted in Burglary Ring Targeting Indian, South Asian Families

The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.

Horizon Campaign Collage
CollectionsMay 02, 2024
Foundrae Launches ‘Horizon’ Collection

“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.

Pandora jewelry
FinancialsMay 02, 2024
Pandora Raises Guidance After Strong Q1

The jeweler credits its recent “Be Love” campaign and ongoing brand revamp for its 17 percent jump in sales.

Glenn Lewis
IndependentsMay 02, 2024
Oklahoma Jeweler Glenn Lewis Dies at 68

The co-founder of Lewis Jewelers was also the longtime mayor of the city of Moore.

The back of the Baume & Mercier watch Elvis gave to Dodie Marshall
AuctionsMay 02, 2024
Vintage Baume & Mercier With Ties to Elvis Sells for $7K

Elvis Presley gifted this circa 1967 gold and diamond watch to Dodie Marshall, his co-star in “Easy Come, Easy Go.”

Harwell Godfrey
IndependentsMay 01, 2024
Harwell Godfrey Opens First Store

It is located in Marin County, California.

Woman holding a dress
SurveysMay 01, 2024
Consumer Confidence Falls in April

Concerns about rising prices, politics, and global conflicts continue to dampen consumer outlook.

Syna emerald earrings
TrendsMay 01, 2024
Amanda’s Style File: All Eyes on Emeralds

May’s birthstone is beloved for its rich green hue and its versatility.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy