$10,000 Sapphire Discovered in the Most Unexpected Place

Yaruby and Phinel Petit-Frere’s story takes an astonishing turn when they rediscover their rare Padparadscha sapphire — hidden in a homemade pizza crust! What started as a family pizza night led to an unforgettable moment, showcasing the resilience of both love and gemstones. Here’s how this rare gem made its way back to them in the most surprising way.

The Vanishing Gem

In an unexpected twist of fate, one of the rarest sapphires in the world was found in the last place anyone would imagine — a homemade pizza crust! Yaruby and Phinel Petit-Frere’s story has captivated gemstone lovers everywhere, adding a new chapter to the enchanting lore of rare gems.

The couple’s journey with the sapphire began over a decade ago when they commissioned a custom anniversary ring in 2014 from The Natural Sapphire Company, a renowned New York jeweler. This was no ordinary ring; it held a stunning Padparadscha sapphire, known for its unique pinkish-orange hue and sunset-like beauty. This gemstone, as rare as it is breathtaking, became a symbol of the Petit-Frere’s bond, capturing the vibrancy and depth of their relationship.

But one fateful family pizza night nearly shattered that cherished memory. As the couple was tucking their children into bed, Phinel noticed the stone was missing from Yaruby’s ring setting. The discovery led to a frantic search. “We searched everywhere,” Phinel recalled. “Under furniture, outside with flashlights since Yaruby had watered the plants earlier. It was heartbreaking, and I thought it was gone forever.”

An Unbelievable Discovery Over Dinner

The universe had a surprise in store for the couple. The next day, Phinel brought some leftover pizza to work, hoping to enjoy a quick lunch at his desk. As he took a bite of the crust, he suddenly felt an intense crunch and a sharp pain. Startled, he examined the crust and, to his amazement, found the missing sapphire embedded in the dough. It was almost too incredible to believe — the prized gemstone had been hiding in their dinner all along! The Petit-Freres were astounded by the bizarre and delightful discovery.

Restoring a Gem of Resilience

Eager to share the incredible news, the couple immediately contacted their jeweler. Despite enduring months of being lost, exposure to the oven’s heat, and the crunch of pizza night, the sapphire was miraculously intact. The gemologists at The Natural Sapphire Company carefully cleaned and restored the resilient stone, amazed at its durability. To commemorate the sapphire’s unexpected return, they set it in a brand new setting to mark the couple’s 20th anniversary, creating a piece that now holds even deeper sentiment.

“We’ve heard many stories in our 85 years, but this one is truly unique,” said Michael Arnstein, owner of The Natural Sapphire Company. “We’re thrilled to have been part of this journey and to restore their beloved ring.”

Why Padparadscha Sapphires Are So Special

Padparadscha sapphires are celebrated worldwide for their captivating blend of pink and orange tones, making them one of the rarest and most sought-after gemstones. Their unique hues, reminiscent of a tropical sunset, give them an aura of mystique and allure. These gemstones are highly valued for their distinct color and scarcity, with collectors and enthusiasts always on the lookout for these treasures. For the Petit-Freres, their Padparadscha sapphire now tells a story of resilience, surprise, and a bond that endured through an unforgettable family adventure. This gem has become more than just a stone; it’s a testament to the strength of love and the surprising ways that life’s treasures reveal themselves.

Experience the rare beauty of Padparadscha Sapphires; explore our collection and discover the unmatched allure for yourself.