“Lampert was chosen to create new jewelry articles because of their demonstrated design vision, manufacturing expertise, and great enthusiasm for the project. Many of the Field’s most noteworthy cut gems were entrusted to Lampert, including the 97.45-carat Red Topaz, the 153.79-carat Peridot measuring nearly 2-1/2-inches long, and a double-sided 37.90-carat Star Sapphire.”
– Lance Grande, PhD, The Field Museum’s Sr. VP, head of collection and research, and curator of the Grainger Hall of Gems
“I am extremely honored to be selected by The Field Museum. The specimens presented led us down different design paths as we strove to give prominence to the unique physical and optical attributes of each gemstone. I was particularly fascinated with the rare ruby-colored topaz and found my design inspiration for that submission, entitled Blaze, from the stone’s unusual color and internal fire.” – Lester Lampert
The Field Museum, located on the shore of Chicago’s Iconic Lake Michigan, opened to the public in 1921. The museum was founded on the mission to “fuel a journey of discovery across time to enable solutions for a brighter future rich in nature and culture.” This mission has been brought to life through the museums many installations and exhibits. While the museum currently features over 40 million exhibits and artifacts, the collection continues to grow. One of the many exhibits that draws people from near and far is the Field Museum’s Hall of Gems. This timeless exhibit opened in 1921 features more than 600 gemstones and 150 pieces of both antique and contemporary jewelry. The gems are displayed in one of three stages: raw crystal, cut and polished stone, and finished jewelry. Featured in this exhibition are 27 stunning gemological specimens that were entrusted to us at Lester Lampert to be mounted in our custom-made jewelry designed and crafted to highlight the finest qualities of every gem.
Learn more about the Grainger Hall of Gems on the Field Museum website.
