Over a background of midnight blue aventurine – a shimmering backdrop for the gemstones – the animal forms began to take shape. Comprising between three and six bespoke mounts, which in turn hold a number of white or black gold plaquettes, or small plates, the different elements were applied, piece by precious piece: diamonds, parts crafted from polished rhodium-plated white gold or matte or micro-blasted black gold, and, in the case of the tiger, vibrant cognac sapphires.It was the task of the gem-setter to precisely match each piece, with absolutely no room for error. Each diamond and sapphire – unique in size and weight – was custom cut to fit the design and some of the elements were minute. The tiniest of tweaks to the size or cut of a stone would have completely changed the look and feel of the animal.
