Gemstone cameos and intaglios
If you thought that stone carvings and sculptures were somewhat limited to granite and marble, think again. For ages, artists and artisans have been leaving their marks on gemstones. One only need look at the ancient Egyptian scarabs and Chinese jade to be reminded that this practice of turning gemstones into carvings has been going on for hundreds if not thousands of years.
And then there are cameos and intaglios. A famous aquamarine intaglio was the portrait of Julia, the daughter of Titus. This particular carved aquamarine, which was signed by its engraver, Evodus, was passed on to Charlemagne, then the Abbey of St. Denis, then to the National Library in Paris. But you don’t need to be a daughter of a Roman Emperor to own and enjoy your own aquamarine intaglio or carving.
A quick search on the internet produces inexpensive aquamarine carvings in the shape of everything ranging from whimsical turtles to delicate roses. The stones used for these inexpensive pieces are somewhat opaque. But then there are others who use only the finest materials. One notable example is the work by artist Bernd Munsteiner who carved the famed Dom Pedro aquamarine into an equally famous sculpture which he called “Waves of the Sea.”
While Munsteiner has received much recognition for his work, and has been compared to Picasso, there are others who are also transforming gemstones into spectacular works of art. One of these gem designers is Michael Dyber. His many awards include first place in gemstone design in the 1994 Idar-Oberstein Precious Stones & Diamond Industry Awards. More recently in 2003, he won first place in the American Gem Trade Association’s Cutting Edge Competition Combination Cuts for a 164 carat Brazilian aquamarine.
From ancient through modern times, gem cutters and designers have been finding new ways to bring out the inherent beauty in every stone. This is good news for gem lovers who are always on the lookout for something different. And if you are in search of a conversation piece and have the right kind of money, you might consider an aquamarine sculpture by one of the masters, but even if you don’t have money, you can find a unique carving to satisfy your desire for something different.
