Gems, they say, are a species of mineral flowers; they are blossoms of the dark, deep mine; and what they lack in fragrance, they make up in rarity. Every gemstone, in its own right, is rare – taking millions and billions of years to form. Each awe-inspiring masterpiece is lovingly shaped by the hands of nature herself, carrying within it an individual narrative, little fragments of history, and an exploration of the unknown. With over 200 types of gemstones known to man, the quest to own a rare gems is no small feat. For connoisseurs, enthusiasts, collectors, historians, gemologists and art curators – the rarity of a gem is what makes it desirable.

A Rare Tapestry of the Yesteryears

A befitting ring for a king, this stupendous diamond ring was originally commissioned by His Highness Nalvadi Krishna Rajendra Wodiyar (Circa 1945) to C. Krishniah Chetty. His Highness later gifted this ring to Late Pratap Singh Chauhan (1891 – 1967) – Sub District Magistrate, the highest post for an Indian in British India who was below the District Magistrate who was always a Britisher – to show his gratitude for taking care of His Highness on his travels to Manasarovar yatra in Badrinath including travel to Mana village which is the last village before the Indo-China border. This ring with precious gems was part of the bouquet of gifts given by His Highness to Shri. Pratap Singh Chauhan and his family – also including 10 Kg of silver, 1 artistically engraved pistol, a saree pin, cufflinks and cash worth 400 bighas of land.

The ring was inherited by the eldest son Late Shri. Kunwar Singh Chauhan (Circa 1916) and eventually to his grandson Shri Bimal Chauhan. Years later, the ring was repurchased by C. Krishniah Chetty as a celebration of its rich heritage and is showcased at the C. Krishniah Chetty Crystal Salon Museum to be admired by all.

Leaving no Stone Unturned

C. Krishniah Chetty has a repertoire of over 155 years of sourcing collector-worthy rare gems. We scout global mines to bring you unique gemstones, each beautiful and singular in their own way.

For over a century, our formidable force of craftsmen have created iconic jewellery lines, and our infinite range of mystical and magical gems have been part of many exclusive collections. We bring only the best, only the rarest, and only the most invaluable gems that are custom-cut to fascinating styles. Our pure gems, crystals and metals fulfil the desires of the seasoned collector. Andalusite, Beryl Heliodor, Conch Pearl, Genuine Topaz, Kornerupine, Sphene, Green Amethyst, Chrysoprase and more, the list is tireless. Our unequalled craftsmanship, conscientious attention to detail and absolute customisation allow for rare jewellery pieces to be transformed into alternate treasures by our craftsmen and designers – a pride for you to own and a delight for you to wear. Many of our one-of-a-kind pieces and rare collectors’ items have piqued the fancy of gemology connoisseurs across the world. Indulge in our eclectic universe of specially cut rare gems. Here are some stand-out pieces from our collection at C. Krishniah Chetty.

The Crystal Waterfall

The green amethyst, a rare cousin of the typically violet-hued amethyst gemstone, is a joy to behold and adorn. This spectacular necklace with diamonds crafted in 18kt yellow gold is elevated with a crystal lattice of special cut, green amethyst gemstones. A room-turner in its own right, this stunning neck piece is a collector’s delight.

The Ear Entourage

A variety of chalcedony, chrysoprase is a rare gemstone with a broad colour spectrum – ranging from apple to olive green, and several shades in between. This statement pair of distinctly carved chrysoprase and diamond earrings crafted in 18th yellow gold, is artistry in all its glory. Glamorous, eye-catching and memorable – these earrings lend an avant-garde edge to any ensemble.

The Dangling Dewdrops

Like dewdrops on a poetic monsoon day, these spinel drop earrings in 18kt white gold bring an element of magic to any occasion. The rare spinel gemstones in a dreamy lavender are specially cut to complement the chic silhouette and fine craftsmanship of the piece.

The Stairway to Heaven

Walk down the aisle of a red carpet event, make a memorable entrance, or steal the gaze of your audience with this gorgeously rare necklace crafted with special cut peridot and streaming diamonds, set in 18kt white gold. A befitting piece to flaunt your décolletage – no matter where you go or what you set out to achieve.

The Lady of the Rings

A singular collectible to add to your jewellery repertoire, and one that will be a proud heirloom for the generations to come. This sensational ring crafted in 18kt yellow gold boasts of a domineering green tourmaline, intricatelycarved with a Ganesha motif, encircled by diamonds and citrine gemstones. The ‘lady of the rings’ is for the lady who has a penchant for the rare, bold and beautiful.

The Atelier of Magical Doings

A single, small room. Hot, humid and busy. Men among burning furnaces and heated crucibles. The sound of music – tap tap of stones being set, gold being melted, wires being drawn and pipes being blown. Gilded glory. 

This is the archetypal workshop of an Indian jeweller and that of C. Krishniah Chetty’s dexterous army of craftsmen. Our universe of gemstones, both precious and rare, is moulded with their wizardly skill. Name it and consider it done. Custom–cutting, custom-designing, laser inscription, and more. 

At our ateliers, every gemstone that is considered rare is meticulously dissected for the unique physical attributes and distinctive features that set it apart from the rest. Its origins are unravelled to understand its place and time of birth, and what extraordinary character it brings to the table.

To indulge in our collection of rare gems, jewels and collectibles, book an appointment here 

The poetry of the earth wraps itself in stone, waiting to find a home and a heart that desires it like none other!