Sapphires are synonymous with Garrard, continues Sarah, who adds that they have featured in some of the British heritage jeweller’s most notable creations over its 290-year history, including Princess Diana’s famous sapphire cluster engagement ring and a sapphire cluster brooch that Prince Albert commissioned for Queen Victoria to wear on their wedding day. It was in 1843 that Queen Victoria appointed Garrard as the first ever official Crown Jewellers, a position the house held until 2007, responsible for creating many of the Royal Family’s most significant jewels during that tenure. It still holds a Royal Warrant from King Charles, bequeathed while he was Prince of Wales. “Every stone has the potential to surprise. There’s an indescribable joy in discovering the unique qualities of a gemstone, whether it’s an inclusion or an unexpected burst of natural colour,” enthuses Sarah, concluding our memorable private session. Other Peninsula Academy curated experiences include a Children’s Adventure Quest in partnership with Sharky and George, an automotive experience in conjunction with Brooklands Museum, and a rare opportunity to sit for Royal portraitist Ralph Heimans. As we examine a range of glittering gemstones with our loupes, the gemmologist reveals how tanzanite and sapphire are often confused because they are both blue. “To the untrained eye, they can look similar, especially when viewed under certain lighting conditions,” she says. “However, they are distinct in terms of their composition, colour and origins. Sapphires come in a range of colours - every colour of the rainbow in fact - but the classic and most recognized variety is blue. Tanzanite, on the other hand, is known for its unique blue-violet hue. It’s also pleochroic, while sapphires are not, which means it can show different colours – blue, violet and purple - depending on the angle of light.”
The Crown Jewels and Gemmology Academy, available for a maximum of three per session at £605 per person. peninsula.com
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