Tiffany launches Bird on a Rock collection featuring 7,500-carat kunzite

Tiffany and Co. has announced the acquisition of a 7,500-carat kunzite crystal, which will be transformed into 10 custom-cut gemstones for its new Bird on a Rock brooch collection. 

Found in Mozambique, Africa over 25 years ago, the 7,500-carat rough kunzite showcases “exceptional” size, clarity and colour, making it a rare gem. 

The gemstone boasts purple to deep lilac hues, and was named in honour of Dr. George Frederick Kunz, Tiffany and Co.’s first chief gemologist. 

A self-taught mineralogist and a renowned authority on coloured gemstones, Dr. Kunz helped establish Tiffany and Co. as the “preeminent source for the rarest and most extraordinary jewels”. 

Alongside morganite, tanzanite and tsavorite, it is one of the house’s “legacy gemstones” that the jeweller introduced to the world throughout the 20th Century. 

The acquisition marks a significant milestone in Tiffany and Co.’s heritage of exceptional gemstones—one that began in 1877 with Charles Lewis Tiffany’s acquisition of the Tiffany Diamond. 

These one-of-a-kind custom-cut creations will celebrate the 60th anniversary of Jean Schlumberger’s bird motif that Tiffany and Co. introduced in 1965.

Designed by Jean Schlumberger in 1965, Bird on a Rock is inspired by a cockatoo, and the brooch reflects Schlumberger’s fascination with nature and movement. 

It has showcased coloured gemstones, most notably the Tiffany Diamond in 1995. Known for its craftsmanship, each piece is meticulously hand set by Tiffany artisans using carefully curated gemstones.

Some distinguished clients will have the unique opportunity to work with Tiffany’s chief gemologist to collaborate on their custom-cut kunzite.

Victoria Wirth Reynolds, chief gemologist and vice president of High Jewellery Diamond and Gemstone Acquisition at Tiffany & Co., said: “This kunzite of over 7,500 carats marks a significant moment in Tiffany’s legacy of exceptional gemstones. Named in honor of Tiffany’s first chief gemologist in 1902, this crystal’s exceptional size, clarity and colour are rare testaments to Mother Nature’s artistry.

“We are honored to share this incredible gemstone with the world; by cutting 10 unique stones from the rough, it will be the perfect celebration to honor the 60th anniversary of the iconic Bird on a Rock.”