10 June 2024
Mozambican rubies are the perfect match for new Sandy Leong Lunar Collection
The latest collaboration between the New York-based designer and Gemfields harnesses the power of ruby red to capture the spirit of Chinese New Year in style.
Comprising nine pieces, all featuring responsibly mined rubies from Montepuez Ruby Mining, the collection was inspired by 2024 being the mighty Year of the Dragon The colour red has always had a special resonance in Chinese culture which makes rubies – said to represent passion, prosperity and protection – perfect for these bold designs.
The Lunar Collection represents the fifth time Leong has partnered with Gemfields on a fine jewellery collection using coloured gemstones – emeralds from the Kagem mine in Zambia or rubies from Montepuez in Mozambique. In this case, Mozambican rubies were the obvious choice for the designer, their fiery red hue encapsulating the spirit of Chinese New Year: a special time for Leong, evoking childhood memories of family and festivities.
The designs in the Lunar Collection all feature rubies set in recycled 18k gold alongside conflict-free diamonds. There are chain, huggie and baguette earrings; an elegant tennis bracelet with ruby baguettes; a pendant; as well as signet and stacking rings. All evoke a sense of timelessness, informed by pieces that Leong inherited from her mother and the idea that jewellery should be passed down through generations and worn for everyday as well as special occasions.
Like Gemfields, Leong puts responsible sourcing at the heart of her business. “Gemfields’ commitment to striving to deliver a positive impact to the gemstones’ place of origin is a huge part of why I love partnering with them,” she explains.All Sandy Leong pieces are produced locally in New York by responsible manufacturers.
As with her previous collections with Gemfields, 10% of the net proceeds from sales will be donated to the Gemfields Foundation, to improve the lives of people in communities around the mines in Africa. Profits from past collections have helped rebuild a school in rural Madagascar.
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