Hong Kong Jewelry Designer Makes U.S. Debut in Carlsbad

More than 1,000 jewelry, gems and sculptures at GIA Museum

CARLSBAD, Calif. – June 29, 2011 – The summer season is officially here, offering an opportunity to sightsee and vacation in Southern California, including a new 1,000-piece gem, jewelry and sculpture exhibit announced today by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Museum.

The GIA Museum exhibit features the first U.S. display of internationally acclaimed, Hong Kong designer Wallace Chan’s jewelry collection. The exhibit, which is based at the world headquarters in Carlsbad, is free and open to the public through fall 2011, by appointment only.

More than 30 of Chan’s whimsical creations are the centerpiece of the diverse exhibits at GIA. Marked by intricate sculpting, carving and stone setting, they employ titanium and vibrant colors to represent living creatures.

“Chan’s inimitable creations are considered not only jewelry, but avant-garde art. We are very proud to show his extraordinary collection, along with the brilliant work of notable designers Perry Brent Davis, Robert Wan and others,” said Terri L. Ottaway, GIA Museum curator. “GIA invites everyone – from the local community, to out-of-town visitors, to gem and jewelry aficionados from around the world – to come experience these stunning pieces.”

GIA, most well-known for creating the famous “4Cs” (Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat weight) exists to protect all purchasers of gemstones, by providing the education, laboratory services, research, instruments and public awareness.

“Through our museum, we strive to increase awareness of gems, jewelry and gemology in exhibits that educate and engage our students and the public,” Ottaway added.

Perry Brent Davis is a master carver best known for pioneering the confluence between the mineral and lapidary trades and the fine art world. Inspired by nature, his work consists of large agates carefully chosen for their intricate patterns, appealing color and rich textures. More than 15 of his sculptures, which combine the influences of art deco, abstract and surrealism are featured.

The award-winning Vega jewelry set by Robert Wan – a Tahitian cultured pearl necklace, bracelet and earrings – is also on view. The set is made of 111 Tahitian cultured pearls and six carats of diamonds mounted in 18K white gold. The center of the necklace features five diamonds that fluoresce under ultraviolet light to mimic the Lyra constellation, whose principal star is Vega.

A 111-carat Burmese star sapphire, courtesy of Benjamin Zucker, will be on display through Aug. 31.

The GIA Museum provides free tours with advanced registration, Monday through Friday. To schedule an individual or group tour, please email guestservices@gia.edu or call 800-421-7250, ext. 4116 or 760-603-4116.

Note: These images are from the Wallace Chan Collection. All photo are by Robert Weldon/© GIA.