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Our way to celebrate COLLECTION issue 60 and to wish a long life to its Publisher & Editor in Chief! Happy 60th Birthday!
The eternal fascination of men and women… for gems and precious stones
What is it about gems and precious stones that appeals so much to men and women alike? The sheer beauty, found in pebbles and rocks… while digging caves or pits, even riverbeddings…? From time immemorial men are searching the earth for these shining objects, often at great expense, ready to risk their life…
The attraction is undeniable, certainly not ordinary. I believe that the stones and gems coming to us through human labour and effort, not only enhance our beauty and looks, but also connect us to a higher energy, spirit or power; something far beyond our own physical presence on this planet.
The largest sized and most costly gemstones in history ended up in crowns worn only by kings, queens, popes, people who had a leading role in their community and placed themselves above all others, in their belief often connected to a god. Whatever the bond may be between earthly power and higher power, tiaras and crowns throughout the ages are silent witnesses today and still worn.
« L’HOMME ET LA, PIERRE » the ring
The fascination to search for gems is shown in an original creation, a ring, which is not just a ring but a sculpture; a symbol of the relationship between searchers of precious materials and nature that offers those.
To wear this outstanding work of fine goldsmithing on your finger is the privilege of one, or very few… to see and admire this ring, is given to all for this very unique piece of jewellery is on display at the Deutsches Museum for Mineralien in Idar-Oberstein, Germany. The right place to have this symbolic ring in matching, suitable surroundings, a mineral collection unparalleled in the world.
About the artist
Claude Mazloum
Coming from a long line of jewellers, Claude Mazloum walked in his father’s steps. Soon the most exquisite and beautiful gems had no secrets for the youngest son of the family.
After completing his studies in Italy, Claude made his graduation masterpiece, the ring « L’HOMME ET LA, PIERRE » a donation to the eminent Deutsches Mineralien Museum.
But it wouldn’t take long till his sense of adventure and passion for gems got this expert out of the comfort of his home or workshop… right to the spots where the gems were actually mined, in the burning sun, the dusty desert, or the jungle – no place or horizon was too far. Whatever means of transport was required, whatever obstacles he met on his path, Claude reached the precious destinations he had set his mind on. He not only gained more knowledge and field experience, these adventurous travels set him apart from his ancestors and the community of professional gemmologists.
A gentleman of multiple talents, an artist in heart and soul, he also had the desire to share the thrill of these expeditions and communicate about his thorough, vast knowledge. In the mysterious world of diamond and gemdealers, Claude Mazloum showed tremendous courage to lift the veil and let the public in on secrets of the trade. Convinced that a happy client is a well educated, well informed client, Claude took on the writing of books on gems and jewellery with the honesty and integrity that readers deserve to find in his books. In his publications as an author and journalist, he also brought the most remarkable jewellery designers, masters and materials of the turn of the century into the spotlight. For someone so driven, creative and passionate the finish line is never in sight. As a result of his dedication and ambition COLLECTION Magazine issue 1 was born in 1999. Today, we are happy to celebrate COLLECTION issue 60 and to wish a long life to its Publisher & Editor in Chief! Happy 60th Birthday!
About the museum
The German Mineral Museum
Below the Chapel-in-the-Rocks, right on the Oberstein marketplace the “Deutsches Mineralien Museum” is one of the most important tourist attractions in the upper Nahe region. It is run by an association with approximately 770 members called “The Heimatfreunde Oberstein e.V.” which was founded in 1932.
Here the visitor will be back in time to experience historical impressions of the city of gemstones. He will find out all the things which made the fame of Idar-Oberstein; an impressive collection of minerals, gemstones and jewelry, as well as samples showing the fascinating craftsmanship of local engravers, gold and silversmiths.
The German Mineralmuseum displays:
The smallest cameo of the world, Minerals from all over the world, some of the largest crystals ever brought to Europe from Overseas and a beautiful collection of replica of famous diamonds are only some of the highlights the GermanMineralmuseum has to offer.
Another highlight is the glyptotheque that emphasizes the work of gemstones’ engravers. Objects d’art, cameos, bowls and figures give an impression of the artistic branch of the gemstone industry.
Top quality specimens of the exploitation of precious stones and minerals of the Saar-Nahe-Highland, among which the raw material of the gem industry of Idar-Oberstein.
Jewellery made at Idar-Oberstein during the last two centuries, i.e. antique and modern jewellery assorted to the appropriate styles.
A geological-paleontological department offers an insight in the history of the earth in the upper Nahe region with petrifications of deposits of Bundenbach and Gemuenden of the Devon era.
The interior of an old agate grinding mill with a waterwheel and a goldsmith workshop of our grandfather’s time.
A department of local history with pictures, documents and demonstrations of the peculiar development of the town and the industry.
A darkroom with fluorescent minerals that show different colours under the influence of ultraviolet light.
Several collections, such as historic diamonds, agate money or amber in addition to replicas of famous state insignia: the British Imperial State Crown and the Royal Scepter, the Prussian King’s Crown from 1861 as well as a sword of Napoleon I.
The German Mineralmuseum is open for visitors every day of the year. On a regular basis special exhibitions focus on different famous local lapidaries, engravers of gemstones or designers like Bernd Munsteiner, Dieter and Andreas Roth or Kristina Boneva for example. They provide also a good opportunity to see minerals in different contexts and admire loans of other museums or organizations. Speaking of a loan, do you know that with 50 loan no credit check, you will not need to go to the bank and fall in long lines. If this interests you navigate to this site cashcrazy.co.uk. Their dedicated brokers are also ready to serve you.
