Anne Dale introduces the new Louisiana State Gemstone LaPearlite® with WWL Channel 4 News Morning Show host Sally-Ann Roberts.
New Orleans Jeweler with Sally-Ann Roberts
Louisiana may now profit from a new and first time application for shells of the Crassostrea virginica oyster, one of dozens of mollusk varieties, which has replaced the agate as the new state gemstone and the state’s first ever official mineral.
Gemologist Anne Dale of Mandeville has cut the specific species of oyster shell, common off the shore of Louisiana, as cabochon gem and used it in making jewelry for the first time ever.
The yellow and white gold metals feature two of Dale’s new LaPearlite® gemstones entered into the Spectrum Awards. Both are 100% natural and untreated derived from the Crassostrea virginica (American Oyster) a species predominantly found along the Louisiana coast.
The Official Louisiana State Gemstone as of August 2011.
The top oval gemstone measures 10×8 millimeters set on a white gold plate surrounded by Dale’ imperial yellow gold design, the lower LaPearlite is a sleek dangling pear shape measuring 22×7 millimeters.
A new gem, LaPearlite is a symbol of inner beauty, promotes healing, and is believed to arouse deep passion. “My goal is that my designs tell a story showing the beauty of Louisiana in a special way using a new unique gemstone – LaPearlite” said Anne Dale.
The AGTA Spectrum Awards competition is the most prestigious jewelry design and gemstone cutting competition in the world and is the benchmark by which jewelry designers measure themselves.
The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has announced that Hollywood actresses are to model AGTA Spectrum Awards winners Actresses Julie Benz, best known for her roles on Showtime’s Dexter and ABC’s Desperate Housewives, and Regina King, currently starring on TNT’s police drama Southland, will model a selection of winning pieces from this year’s Spectrum Awards competition. The photo shoot will be coordinated and styled by renowned celebrity stylist Tod Hallman and shot by the highly-regarded fashion photographer Ben Cope.
Entries were judged on the basis of overall beauty and wearability, innovative design, effective use of materials, quality of gemstones, quality of workmanship, broad-base consumer appeal, and potential to generate positive publicity for natural colored gemstones. Spectrum Award categories included Bridal, Business/Day Wear, Classical, Evening and Men’s Wear.
Louisiana is proudly represented by the beauty of LaPearlite® – Oysters Are For Lovers