Rarer than diamonds…
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Nicole van der Wolf
1y ago
Saniniu Kuryan Laizer, a small scale miner in Tanzania, became an overnight millionaire after uncovering the world’s two largest tanzanite crystals to date. The whopping 9.27kg and 5.1kg stones easily surpassed the previous record-holder of 3.3 kg. Laizer’s two large tanzanites were quickly snapped up by the Tanzania government and will be kept in the national museum as part of Tanzania’s national treasure. 9.3 kg and 5.1 kg Tanzanite crystals (source: Tanzania Ministry of Minerals) What will Laizer do with his €2.9 ($3.3) million windfall? After a big celebration, he plans to give back to h ..read more
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The perfect gift is personal
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Ronan Campbell
1y ago
Often a favourite piece holds significance because it was gifted by a special person in your life. Or maybe it has heartfelt meaning for the event it celebrates. But it could be as simple as a distinct statement of personal style. As you can see cherished jewellery is by its very nature personal. So if you’re looking to surprise her with a memorable gift, jewellery is a great place to start. We have a few tips for making that piece carry special significance – something she will treasure and wear for many years to come.       Personalise it with an inscription. Inscriptions add ..read more
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What’s the difference between Pinks Sapphire and Rich Red Ruby?
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Nicole van der Wolf
1y ago
Did you know that Ruby and Pink Sapphire are both variations of the same mineral –  corundum (the technical term for sapphire)? Read on to find out what is the difference. From a scientific standpoint, rubies and sapphires are variations of corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), which obtains its distinctive colors from impurities or trace elements like iron, titanium, or chromium. These impurities produce a spectrum of hues within corundum crystals, encompassing shades such as gray, brown, yellow, green, blue, purple, red, and pink. So, what distinguishes rubies from pi ..read more
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September Birthstone: Sapphire
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Ronan Campbell
1y ago
Sapphires are one of the most cherished coloured gemstones in the jewellery world. For centuries, sapphires have decorated the robes of royalty, clergy & some of the most sophisticated style icons of our time. One of the most famous sapphire rings today is Kate Middleton’s Sapphire engagement ring previously worn by Diana. Mounted in a diamond cluster the style remains popular as an engagement ring and many a stylish lady wears it as a right hand ring to celebrate special life achievements.      Sapphire is also the birthstone for September, making it the perfect gift for ..read more
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Jewellery’s unsung heroes – from decorative to hidden and everything in between.
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Ronan Campbell
1y ago
In contemporary jewellery the clasp is so much more than a functional fastener of a necklace or bracelet. Of course its principal purpose is to keep the item safely on the wearer. Secondary, but no less  important, is that the clasp fit the aesthetics of the piece. Clasps can be anything from big, bold and intended to be prominently displayed, through to fully hidden mechanisms.   A well designed neckpiece or bracelet considers the clasp as an integral design element. Some contemporary jewellery makers take a particular interest in finding innovative solutions to get a perfect f ..read more
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August Birthstone: Peridot
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Nicole van der Wolf
1y ago
We love the sun-kissed colour of the August birthstone: Peridot. The earliest finds we know of were in Egypt and it is rumoured to have been Cleopatra’s favourite gem. One look at this cheerful green gem and you’ll see why. The bright green gem is also known as “evening emerald” and in ancient times, it was often confused with the better known green emerald. This lesser known olive green gem Peridot is formed deep in the earth’s mantle and comes to the surface through volcanic action at different points across the globe. Although it is formed under similar conditions as diamonds, its characte ..read more
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Rich Red Carnelian unveiled
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Nicole van der Wolf
1y ago
Carnelian (a.k.a. Cornelian) is the red variety of chalcedony, a very fine-grained or cryptocrystalline variety of quartz. Chalcedony comes in a range of colours — from bluish white, gray, yellow, to earthy reds and browns. Carnelian is the variety of chalcedony that is coloured by impurities of iron oxide. The colour can vary greatly, ranging from pale orange to an intense, almost-black coloration.   Throughout the ages chalcedony has been popular as a material for carving and engraving, making beads and detailed intaglios that have stood the test of time. The oldest examples of beads ..read more
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July gift guide
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Nicole van der Wolf
1y ago
For the perfect gift in July have a look at our gorgeous ruby jewellery. Ranging from contemporary to vintage design, from cheerful red cabochons to simply exquisite one of a kind pieces, you’re sure to find the perfect gift to mark your special event this month ..read more
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Lord Mayor selects Tony Downey sculpture for Freedom of Dublin Award
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Ronan Campbell
1y ago
Duncan Stewart is awarded Freedom of Dublin for his tireless work in the field of environmental campaigning. The Lord Mayor, Caroline Conroy, selected a gorgeous bog oak sculpture from our collection by Irish sculptor Tony Downey to use for the award. Tony’s work in 400 year old bog oak is immensely popular with DesignYard customers over the years. Unfortunatley his recent passing means the collection’s days are numbered. We’re delighted one of his stunning pieces was selected for this award as the material and Tony’s own ethos are so fitting for the purpose and the recipient. “Grace” a strik ..read more
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European Gaze On Kilkenny Makers
DESIGNYARD Blog
by Nicole van der Wolf
1y ago
Kilkenny has long had the reputation for being a centre of creativity in Ireland, and the MADE in Kilkenny collective has actively contributed to this perception over the last decade. The group strives to bring together the considerable wealth of craft talent found in Kilkenny and present it to a wider audience, as well as foster excellence in craftsmanship. In 2021, the collective applied for and was awarded the designation of World Craft Council Craft City and Region – one of only four regions in Europe to achieve this recognition. This award will greatly enhance Kilkenny’s reputation as a ..read more
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