Shanghai small 9ct yellow gold earstuds with white pearl and lapis lazuli. Inspired by the Shanghai river. From the Journey to China.
The great city of Shanghai is defined by its Whangpooriver snaking around its bends. Cassandra's earrings twist around the facetted, briolette and cabochon cut stones, each pair unique in its combination of colours: soft pink kunzite, green tourmalines and golden citrines. The stones are unrepeatable. From the journey to China.
Gold is a metal that Cassandra loves to work with, it takes a wonderful pátina with time. Cassandra has the skill of knowing which carat, strength and durability of gold to use, where stone setting is concerned, so that jewels last and look beautiful for generations. Sourcing gold and other metals responsibly from people who have the same ethical vision as herself is particularly important, and she regularly encourages transformations from old unworn jewels in to new sparkling pieces. When receiving jewels from Cassandra Goad, you can be assured that only the highest quality gold is being used.
Emerald derives from the term 'smaragdos', meaning 'green stone'. Emerald is the most precious gemstone in the beryl crystal group as a result of its incomparable green, caused by the presence of chromium. Only the finest emeralds are transparent, with most featuring inclusions, often in three phases; of gas, liquid and solid. Historically the finest emeralds were found in Colomnia and India, where one Maharajah was weighed in emeralds. It is also the birthstone for the month of May.
All Cassandra Goad jewellery is designed and made in the
workshops in London.
As a gemmologist, the chemical composition and properties of
gemstones have always fascinated Cassandra. Ever in search of the
unusual and rare, she travels the world to source beautiful
gemstones, either in the rough or cut form. The craftsman works as
an artist recreating the design in metal, his interpretation is
vital to the overall feel of the jewel. The jewel is then mounted,
assayed , polished and set. Many of Cassandra's jewels can be hand
engraved with a personal message to make a unique bespoke gift.
In China, Cassandra designed her Qin and Han collection, interpreting the warring factions in opposing colours of gemstones. Butterflies of diamonds, sapphires and emeralds inspired on the 18th century Chinese wallpaper became necklaces and tiaras. Cassandra was overwhelmed by the Temple of Heaven- its geometric roof shapes becoming a pair of earrings.