From July 29th to October 20th, 2024, L’ÉCOLE Asia Pacific, School of Jewelry Arts presents “Ruby, Discover the Gemstones”, its first exhibition at Les Jardins Secrets by Van Cleef & Arpels, in the Raffles Hotel Singapore. Part of the “Discover the Gemstones” series, the exhibition takes visitors on an extraordinary journey to observe gems in their natural state, from the depths of the earth to the skilled hands of lapidaries. With more than 20 exhibits, it traces the path of these exquisite stones long before they adorn the finest jewelry creations, illustrating the marriage between nature’s gift and human creativity.

Ruby is one of the most popular precious stones. The chemical element of chromium within corundum gives rise to this magnificent gem, named after the Latin word «ruber», meaning red. Beyond its vibrant colors lies a tale that unfolds the very essence of our planet. For gemologists, ruby is a testament to the wonders of nature, revealing the Earth’s history through its formation and inclusions that lie within.

Alongside a selection of High Jewelry creations from Van Cleef & Arpels Collection, archival documents, exceptional loans from private collectors and rough mineral specimens are displayed. Visitors will be also be able to observe the ruby’s up-close inclusions, as they dive into the infinitely small and fascinating world of the gem through the lens of Billie Hughes, award-winning photomicrographer and gemologist at Lotus Gemology.

This exhibition warmly invites visitors to immerse themselves into the enchanting universe of the ruby. By contemplating the links between the world of gemstones and jewelry arts, L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts is pursuing its mission of spreading jewelry culture to the widest possible audience, with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels.