De Beers’s Latest High-Jewelry Collection Combines Rough and Polished Diamonds

Knysna Chameleon ring. Photo: Courtesy of De Beers

Synonymous with the world’s most treasured diamonds, De Beers is changing the perception of the gemstone with its latest high jewelry collection. Presented in Paris during Haute Couture Week, Portraits of Nature comprises five whimsical suites of unique pieces, all inspired by different animals from Africa, in a nod to the brand’s heritage. Monarch butterflies sparkle with pink, orange, and brown diamond wings, while electric cichlids are represented by yellow diamonds.

“The pieces are an interpretation of the animals’ movement and the kaleidoscope of light that reflects off their bodies,” says Grace Lepard, head of design at De Beers. Most extraordinary is the Knysna Chameleon series, which boasts a medley of polished and rough rare fancy diamonds in hypnotic hues like olive green and pink Champagne.

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“Only the rarest and best rough diamonds are selected to stay unpolished as nature intended,” Lepard says. “One of the most exciting changes the industry has seen is the rise of women purchasing jewelry for themselves. This ultimately has an impact on design, which has become more adventurous and bolder.”

Knysna Chameleon medallion. Photo: Courtesy of De Beers

Greater Flamingo necklace. Photo: Courtesy of De Beers

Electric Cichlid bracelet. Photo: Courtesy of De Beers

Knysna Chameleon earrings. Photo: Courtesy of De Beers

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2019 Late Fall issue under the headline “Portraits of Nature.” Subscribe to the magazine.