Naomi Sarna: Don’t miss the ‘Stone in Motion’ exhibition at the Wilensky gallery

November 8, 2019

By Katerina Perez

4 min read

The Wilensky Gallery will play its part in New York Jewellery Week by presenting a memorable, out of this world exhibition of debut works titled ‘Naomi Sarna: Stone in Motion,’ on display 20th November to 20th December 2019.

New York-based jewellery designer Naomi Sarna is actively traveling the world in search of coloured gemstones. Her jewellery eloquently reflects that she is inspired by the nature of their fluidity and organic forms. To manifest these qualities, she has mastered the art of hand carving and inlay. As one of the best gemstone cutters in the world, Naomi has also won many prestigious accolades, including 23 AGTA Spectrum Awards.

Naomi Sarna carved gemstones jewellery

Naomi Sarna carved gemstones jewellery

I see my jewels as transitional objects, ones that evolve from their natural origins as crystals found in the earth to their completed journey for the person who wears them. My hands construct their story. The happy wearer treasures both their existence and their story in the same way that Wilensky mineral origins are treasured. To see them in that context is a union of spirit, art and nature, says Naomi of her exhibition at the Wilensky Gallery.

Naomi Sarna Topaz Leaf brooch with white topaz, multicoloured diamonds and sapphires

Naomi Sarna Topaz Leaf brooch with white topaz, multicoloured diamonds and sapphires

The exhibition at the New York Gallery combines handmade jewellery inspired by fabric and running water. Here, the aesthetic is realised through carved gemstones, fiery Mexican opal, amethyst, aquamarine, topaz, jade, zircon and chrysoprase. It seems Naomi can conquer any gem, even the most difficult to carve. With the shapes she forms in her cocktail rings, brooches and pendants, Naomi pays tribute to a gem’s natural dynamic.

Naomi Sarna “Feather” aquamarine and diamond brooch

Naomi Sarna “Feather” aquamarine and diamond brooch

Naomi Sarna is not a stone cutter. She is a poet, crafting profound literature with gemstones. Each piece possesses its own spellbinding personality. I fell in love with a jadeite bracelet I tried on. It felt as if this amulet had chosen me and not the other way around. There is truly something magical about Naomi Sarna’s collection, says Troy Wilensky, the gallery’s Managing Director.

Naomi Sarna Mexican Fire Opal necklace

Naomi Sarna Mexican Fire Opal necklace

 Naomi Sarna “Solar Flare” hand-carved citrine and pink sapphire ring

Naomi Sarna “Solar Flare” hand-carved citrine and pink sapphire ring

 Naomi Sarna “Solar Flare” hand-carved citrine and pink sapphire ring

Naomi Sarna “Solar Flare” hand-carved citrine and pink sapphire ring

It must be said that the emotional power of coloured gemstones permeates the entire ‘Naomi Sarna: Stone in Motion’ exhibition as a theme; running through it like a red line. Spectators, following each smooth curve of the stones, will not only admire the skillful and incredibly complex carvings – but will also definitely feel the mood, strength and character of each individual exhibit. For example, the ‘Solar Flare’ ring in yellow gold with a 58 carat citrine surrounded by pink sapphires evokes the vibrations of the sun with the fiery red flashes on its surface.

Naomi Sarna yellow zircon 'Bud' brooch

Naomi Sarna yellow zircon 'Bud' brooch

A palladium cocktail ring with a 47 carat blue topaz and diamonds resembles water’s fluid and soothing surface. Meanwhile, the ‘Feather’ brooch – made of white gold and a 91.64 carat aquamarine and diamonds – creates an intricate play of light and colour on the entire surface of the stone, demonstrating the effect of internal transformation: a gem of strength.

Naomi Sarna carved topaz and diamond ring in palladium

Naomi Sarna carved topaz and diamond ring in palladium

 Naomi Sarna carved amethyst and diamond ring set in platinum

Naomi Sarna carved amethyst and diamond ring set in platinum

 Naomi Sarna exceptional hand carved aquamarine and diamond gold pendant

Naomi Sarna exceptional hand carved aquamarine and diamond gold pendant

 Naomi Sarna nephrite jade brooch

Naomi Sarna nephrite jade brooch

The exhibition runs until 20th December, and can be accessed for free by registering via this link. And there’s a bonus: Naomi Sarna’s jewellery will be available for sale after the exhibition. If you are already interested in a particular piece, please contact the Wilensky Gallery.

Banner photo by: Michael David Adams

Jewellery trend: Floating diamond designs

continue reading

Blinded by the Light: The April Birthstone Through the Lens of Diamond Pavé

Let's consider pieces that showcase this method of craftsmanship in all its sparkling glory…

by Katerina Perez

Love Language: Introducing the Expressive Creations of Zome Jewellery

For designers like Meghna Biswas, the woman behind Zome Jewellery in the United Arab Emirates, the process of transforming coloured gemstones and precious metals into beautiful creations is an ever-evolving love language

by Katerina Perez

Diamond Garden: Creating Digital Delights with AI Artist Anastasia Rogozhina

Take a look and consider the incredible feats that artificial intelligence can achieve in empowering creativity and broadening our minds

by Katerina Perez

100 Years of Art Deco: Top 10 Pieces of Art Deco Jewellery Sold at Auction

From the legendary Van Cleef & Arpels Jarretière bracelet worn by Marlene Dietrich to a striking aigrette that was once part of the Al Thani collection, all the pieces below are infused with the fearless originality of the Jazz Age

by Claire Roberts

Spirited Jewels: The Expressive Creativity of Elena Semy Jewellery 

Today, I'd like to introduce you to the creative designs of Elena Semy Jewellery and Elena, the artist behind them

by Katerina Perez

Rings of Power: Bold Torques are Making a Fine Jewellery Comeback

This powerful necklace with ancient roots is reclaiming its place in contemporary jewellery collections. Its sleek yet rigid silhouette speaks to confident women who want to assert a quiet power. Plus, it is the perfect setting for a chic diamond drop. 

by Rachael Taylor

Ocean Depths: Sotheby’s to Auction the Fancy Vivid Mediterranean Blue Diamond 

This sensational stone is due to be unveiled globally in Abu Dhabi on April 8 and will be auctioned by Sotheby’s Geneva on May 13. Before the bidding flurry commences, let’s take a closer look at this rare blue specimen that’s estimated to sell for in the region of US$20 million

by Sarah Jordan

All That Jazz: 100 Years of Art Deco Jewellery

This wonderfully decadent period of Prohibition parties, glittering cocktail soirées and exuberant Art Deco jewellery, which straddled more than a quarter of a century from 1908 to 1935, had a profound effect on society that touched upon almost every aspect of life in its pursuit of beauty, with the worlds of art, adornment, fashion, interiors, architecture and technology all irreversibly changed as a result

by Claire Roberts

Girls Just Want To Have Fun: An Elevated Take On Nostalgic and Joyous Jewellery

The days have just gotten lighter, which makes them seem longer, indicating that Spring will soon be here. And today, on April Fool’s Day, we begin to feel a sense of frivolity and play. Therefore, we hope to put a smile on your face with this article dedicated to jewellery with a dash of humour and a whole lot of wit

by Beth Bernstein

Aquamarine Tales Part II: Epic Stones, Extraordinary Finds & Royal Treasures

Aquamarine has long been adored for its serene blue hues and storied past. But beyond its beauty lies a world of extraordinary discoveries, epic stones and tales of fate that seem almost too incredible to be true

by Katerina Perez

Tanzanite Temptations: The Gemstone Specialisms of the Royal Touch Group

I spoke to Royal Touch Group Principal Ashish Rawat about his third-generation family business, its beginnings in emeralds, and its ties to the global promotion and distribution of Tanzania’s famed blue gem

by Katerina Perez

Aquamarine Tales Part I:  Stories of Healing, Connection & Some Truly Extraordinary Gems

I’ve always been captivated by the stories behind jewels and gems, so to celebrate March’s birthstone, I recently took to Instagram and asked my audience to share their most memorable aquamarine tales

by Katerina Perez

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Century of Splendour:Louis Vuitton Awakened Hands, Awakened Minds Chapter II

Creative Director Francesca Amfitheatrof offers her unique interpretation of a pivotal period in France’s history, marked by the French Revolution, the Napoleonic era, and the rise of industrialism

by Sarah Jordan

Jewels Katerina Perez Loves

Continue Reading

Writing Adventures:Co-Authoring the Book

Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.