Gayatri Devi takes Jaipur gems to UK

LONDON: Rajamata Gayatri Devi will launch the first UK exhibition of precious jewellery from the legendary Gem Palace in Jaipur. The priceless jewels will be on view at the Gilbert Collections at Somerset House in central London from 28 September. Rajamata Gayatri Devi, who has a residence in London and spends much of her time here, will officially open the exhibition on Thursday at a private party.

The dazzling exhibition will feature 250 pieces of exquisite traditional Indian jewellery, many made as special one-off commissions. Contemporary pieces will also be on show. Munnu Kasliwal, whose family established the Gem Palace in 1852 and have been jewellers to Moghul emperors, will also be present at the inauguration.

Former admirers and clients of the Gem Palace have included Countess Mountbatten of Burma, Jackie Onassis, and Diana, Princess of Wales. Current admirers include Nicole Kidman, Mick Jagger, Giorgio Armani, Arun Nayar, and Ashley and Allegra Hicks. Some of their jewellery is worn during the Oscars and other award ceremonies.

Among the jewels on display will be gold and enamelled chandelier earrings, cabochon rings, bracelets, beaded necklaces studded with diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and rubies, as well as jewelled objects d’art set with precious and semi-precious stones.  There will also be a specially designed shop selling a selection of Gem Palace jewellery. Prices for the items on sale will start from £500.

The Gem Palace exhibition has been organised by Harry Fane, who is recognised as the foremost authority on vintage Cartier. Fane has been going to India for many years due to the strong connections between Cartier and the Indian sub-continent. Fane has formed a close bond with the Kasliwal family and it has been his ambition to bring the Gem Palace to London.