Interview with Jody Wainwright and Saul Goldberg
Boodles Director of Precious Gemstones, Jody Wainwright, regularly travels to New York’s diamond district in search of the world’s most beautiful stones.
We caught up with Jody during a recent visit to Saul Goldberg. It was Saul’s late father, William, who perfected the Ashoka® cut.
What makes an Ashoka diamond so special?
Jody Wainwright: "There’s something about the Ashoka cut that’s really uplifting. People often speak of diamonds as if they have life. You don’t see it in a photograph, because of course a picture is static. When you look at an Ashoka close-up, the way the light plays is just spectacular. For me, it’s an emotional response."
Saul Goldberg: "That’s it: joy. More than any other diamond cut I know, the Ashoka puts a smile on people’s faces."
Tell us a bit more about your transatlantic relationship.
Jody Wainwright: "What’s so wonderful is it doesn’t feel like work. Boodles is a family business — I work with my father, my uncle, my cousin. It’s been a similar journey for Saul. And the people who like Boodles jewellery value that kind of trusting relationship where your word is your bond. When Saul and his wife Dale join us at Boodles events in England or elsewhere, they love to meet the people who are wearing our jewellery — and especially when they’re wearing Ashoka!"
Saul Goldberg: "It’s very special. Families do things on trust. There’s a continuity of ethics, morality, behaviour, passed on from generation to generation. Everything is a handshake. You keep to your word, you do what’s right. And that’s what diamonds are about. Diamonds are symbols of that love and trust. It’s important we never forget that."
