A magnificent suite of peridot: The ultimate value of a gemstone suite lies not only in the cost and quality of the materials themselves, but also in the selection of the rough, the quality of the faceting, and the intricacy of the setting in a well-designed and well-manufactured suite of jewelry. This article chronicles the creation of a fine suite of peridot jewelry from the mine in the Himalayas to the manufacture of the necklace, bracelet, ring, and earrings. Eight kilograms (40,000 carats) of peridot rough from the Sapat Valley region of Pakistan was purchased in early 2004. Following the assessment of the rough, careful preforming and faceting produced a precisely matched suite of Asscher-cut peridots. The suite comprises 54 gems ranging from 3.57 to 18.30 ct, for a total weight of 350.40 ct. Van Cleef & Arpels in Paris designed the jewelry, and the New York atelier of Van Cleef & Arpels manufactured the five pieces.
