Australasian Elements: The Arapawa Pendant
The Arapawa pendant is a symbol of the finest gemstones and pearls to come out of Australasia...
Taking centre stage of this pendant’s features is the round paua pearl, cultured in the abalone that is only found in such striking colours in the waters of New Zealand. Paua pearls have a beautiful blue, green, purple and pink iridescence and because of the differences in colour and shape no two paua pearls are the same. Each paua pearl, whether cultured or naturally occurring, is a one-of-a-kind phenomenon.
Surrounding the beautiful paua pearl are exceptional round Argyle pink diamonds from Australia, which are amongst the rarest diamonds in the world. These pink Argyle diamonds are held between stylised koru shapes of yellow gold and the brightest white pear-shaped diamonds, all ultimate D colour and from VVS-IF in clarity, beautifully clear gems. Together these white and pink diamonds have a total weight of over three and a half carats.
Considerable time was required to bring the platinum, 18ct yellow gold, and fine gemstone elements of this gorgeous pendant together. Between our award-winning master jewellers who each have an average of 30 years experience, it was expertly crafted in our on-site Wellington jewellery workshop.
The design reflects ancient Māori symbolism, in both the design pattern and detailing on the front of the pendant as well as on its underside. The pattern work and detailing reflect Māori culture and art brought together in a classically styled piece, making it a testament to Aotearoa’s history.