The Paepcke Necklace will be auctioned at the upcoming Summer Celebration on August 8 with all proceeds to benefit the refurbishing of the Paepcke Building. Jewelry designer, Ariane Zurcher, was inspired to design and donate an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind necklace as her gift to the Aspen Institute in honor of its 60th Anniversary. Zurcher’s exquisite 18-karat brushed gold necklace, with its shimmering 224 karats of aquamarine cabochons, is accented with natural Venezuelan pearls and has an estimated value of $65,000.
“To be able to contribute in any small way to the legacy of my grandparents, Walter and Elizabeth Paepcke is an honor,” says Ariane Zurcher. “This one-of-a-kind necklace was exclusively designed to benefit the Aspen Institute, and to help fund the renovation of Paepcke Building. It is dedicated to my grandparents, Elizabeth and Walter Paepcke, who founded the Aspen Institute.”
“My grandmother Elizabeth had a strong influence on my life. I selected the large aquamarine cabochons in the necklace because they reminded me of her legendary blue eyes. The snowcapped mountains of the Rockies, which captivated my grandfather, are reflected in the gold shapes and natural pearls.”
Caribou Jewels, located at 431 East Hopkins Avenue in Aspen, will exhibit the Paepcke Necklace from June 23rd to August 5th so that patrons and friends of the Aspen Institute will have the opportunity to preview this magnificent piece of jewelry. Caribou Jewels, one of the premier jewelry stores in the resort mecca represents designs from around the world. “We are always interested in showing one-of-a-kind pieces like this one by Ariane Zurcher. She has created a beautiful unique piece, perfect for Aspen. It’s a pleasure to be showing this for the Aspen Institute,” says store manager, Alicia Dewey.
www.arianezurcher.com