The riviera is one of the most elegant and timeless designs in the world of jewelry. Its name originates from the French word for “coastline,” reflecting the continuous, flowing design that mimics the smooth, uninterrupted lines of a coastal horizon. Traditionally composed of a sequence of gemstones of the same size and cut, the riviera piece symbolizes sophistication and continuity, making it ideal for both bracelets and necklaces.
In Brazil, with its vast wealth of natural stones such as tourmaline and aquamarine, designers have the opportunity to create unique and striking rivieras. However, the success of this type of jewelry depends on several essential criteria when selecting the stones and designing the piece.
Here are the fundamental tips that every designer should take into account when creating a riviera with Brazilian gemstones:
1. Stone Size and Proportion
The first criterion when designing a riviera with Brazilian stones is to ensure that the stones chosen are the correct size and proportion. Typically, riviera stones are between 2 mm and 5 mm in diameter. For bracelets, smaller sizes, between 2 mm and 4 mm, are preferable, creating a delicate and comfortable piece for everyday use. For necklaces, stones up to 5 mm can be used, offering a more imposing look.
It’s essential that all stones are of uniform size to maintain the design’s continuity. A stone that differs in size can break the visual harmony, which is crucial in a riviera.
2. Uniformity of Color and Clarity
Another key criterion is the uniformity of the stones' color and clarity. In the case of Brazilian gemstones, such as tourmaline, amethyst or aquamarineit’s important to ensure that all gems have consistent tones. One of the most valued characteristics of a riviera is perfect visual homogeneity, which can only be achieved when the stones have matching colors and levels of transparency.
Additionally, clarity should be closely observed. Stones with visible inclusions can compromise the brilliance and beauty of the piece. Be sure to select stones with good transparency, so the light passes through them, enhancing the gem’s natural sparkle.
3. Shape and Cut
Cut is one of the most important factors in creating a riviera. The cut needs to be precise and well-executed so that all stones have the same shape and provide a continuous shine effect throughout the piece. Stones like tourmaline and aquamarine are often cut into shapes such as bright ou oval, which enhance the color depth and light refraction.
Uniformity in cut is crucial because an irregular cut can cause gaps or unevenness in the piece, compromising the continuous design that defines a riviera.
4. Riviera with Brazilian Stones: Number of Stones
The number of stones used directly depends on the size of the gems and the length of the piece. For a bracelet with 17 cm to 19 cm in length, the use of 40 to 60 stones. Already in a necklace, from 40 cm to 45 cm in length, the quantity can vary from 80 to 120 stones, depending on the size.
When designing a riviera, carefully plan the number of gems needed to ensure that the piece has a balanced distribution and is comfortable to wear.
5. Comfort and Wearability
Despite its beauty, a riviera needs to be comfortable for the wearer. The weight of the piece, the size of the stones, and the type of clasp used should be carefully considered. Very large stones can make the piece heavy, which may be uncomfortable for prolonged use. Ensure that the clasp is secure, especially for necklaces, to avoid accidental loss.
6. Brazilian Gemstones: Choose Carefully
With so many options for Brazilian gems available, such as tourmaline, amethyst and aquamarine, it is important to choose those that best align with your design identity. tourmaline, with its variety of green tones, is perfect for bold and elegant pieces. aquamarine, with its calm and soft tone, brings a delicate sophistication, ideal for a more classic look.
All those stones are widely available in Brazil and can be found in high quality, offering a unique opportunity for designers who want to create exclusive pieces with a strong Brazilian identity.
7. Sustainability and Sourcing
Finally, it’s crucial that designers consider the origin of the stones used. With increasing awareness around sustainability, consumers are paying more attention to the source of materials in their jewelry. In Brazil, it’s possible to find high-quality gems from responsible sources that prioritize local communities and small-scale family mining operations. Ensuring that the stones are ethically sourced adds value to the piece and reinforces the brand’s reputation.
By following these criteria, designers can create rivieras that not only impress with their beauty but also stand out for their quality and design precision. The combination of Brazilian gemstones with the classic riviera design can result in truly unique jewelry pieces that express the best of contemporary jewelry.
To explore the best options of Brazilian gemstones, register on our WebGem and access a vast selection of carefully curated gems. With access to prices and technical details, you’ll be able to design your pieces with complete confidence and transparency.
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