On the occasion of the XXVII Biennale des Antiquaires, which took place in Paris last September 11 to 21, Cartier unfolded a spectacular collection, Cartier Royal, focusing on exceptional precious stones.
We have already admired the Reine Makéda Necklace, today it is the turn of the Viracocha Necklace to take the stage. This necklace, made up of a double line of diamonds and emeralds beads, features a stunning cushion-cut emerald weighing 26.60 carats, irradiating deep and brilliant green hues, the source of its radiance.
Out of curiosity, the name Viracocha recalls the great creator god of the pre-Inca and Inca mythology in the Andes region of South America. Viracocha was one of the most important deities in the Inca pantheon and seen as the creator of all things, or the substance from which all things are created, and intimately associated with the sea. Viracocha created the universe, sun, moon, and stars, time (by commanding the sun to move over the sky) and civilization itself. Viracocha was worshipped as god of the sun and of storms. He was represented as wearing the sun for a crown, with thunderbolts in his hands, and tears descending from his eyes as rain.
A name recalling primordial creation forces, for an exceptional emerald generated by the primordial mouvements of the Earth and powerfully presented to the world by this sleek, art-deco-reminiscent but truly modern necklace design.
A close up on this mesmerizing Colombian emerald, to appreciate all of its internal movements:
And finally, a full view of this majestic piece…
…truly fit for a modern and self-confident Queen:
Material courtesy of Cartier, Rouge Cartier, Wikipedia (Viracocha definition).
Such beautiful art at the Biennale des Antiquaires! Colorful Jewelry Inspired by Classic Art as well don’t you agree?
I absolutely agree with you, and I hope to have the chance and visit the next edition in two years time!