MODERN ALADDIN’S CAVE

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIX, Issue 20065, 23 March 1935, Page 20

MODERN ALADDIN’S CAVE

JEWELS FOR JUBILEE BALL The choicest collection of precious stones ever brought together in one place will be seen at the Jewel Ball, to be held in connection with the King’s Silver jubilee celebrations at Grosvenor House, London, on May 23—the eve of Empire Day. The ball will be one of the most brilliant of the social functions connected with the jubilee celebrations. The finest specimens of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, opals, black and white pearls, and every other kind of gem are being brought together from the farthest corners of the Empire for the ball. Officials state that the display will out-rival even the magnificent Jewels of Empire, the pageant held in London in 1930. Of special interest will be a collection of aquamarines. Only the purest specimens are being selected, and they will range in colour from pale green to yellow and white. Arrangements for the ball are being supervised by Lady Mount Temple, who will be assisted by Mrs Oswald Birley, wife of the painter. The finest of the gems will be worn in a pageant in which the 20 principal figures will be supported by 100 other women, each arrayed in jewels worth a fortune. The costumes to be worn will be specially designed to enhance the beauty of the gems. “Emeralds” will be represented by Lady Mount Temple, wearing some of the world’s finest stones. Lady Melchett will represent “Jade,” with similarly magnificent pieces. The diamonds will shine against a background of costumes carefully graded in colour, so that the onlooker will gain the “flame” effect produced when a single diamond flashes in the light. The costume colours will be graded to give the suggestion of dull flame growing to brilliance. The ball is in aid of the Papworth Village Centre and other charities nominated by the National Jewellers’ Association, which is lending the gems. The Duke of Kent, president of the Papworth Village Centre, has promised to be present. Lady (Austen) Chamberlain is president of the ball committee and Lady Mount Temple chairman. The Duke of Atholl will act as president of the charity appeal.