Jewelry

This story originally appeared in the November/December 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. The faceted, teardrop-shaped stone brings a sense of playfulness to any piece of jewelry. We love how clusters of the stone shimmer and shake, whether adorning a stunning watch or dangling from a ring or necklace. Chopard Copacabana necklace in 18K white gold with 282.79 carats sapphire briolettes, 27.35 […]

This story originally appeared in the November/December 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. Known for its incredible high jewelry, as well as acquisition and polishing of some of the world’s most famous diamonds, including the Letšeng Star (a 550-carat rough diamond) and the Magnificence (the largest emerald-cut D flawless diamond in the world), Graff’s exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional stones set it apart […]

This story originally appeared in the November/December 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. Celestial bodies, bubbles and golden cages filled with rock crystal are just a few of the ways that designers showcase the brilliance of gold. Several of these pieces twist and twirl, revealing secret stones or transforming into something new. Marina B Atomo necklace in 18K yellow gold, $39,000, Marina […]

This story originally appeared in the September/October 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. Twisted ribbons, coiled spirals and turbulent ocean waves inspire designers to create pieces brimming with life. Far from more traditional, linear pieces of jewelry, these swirls of diamonds and precious stones pull you to admire their undulating curves. Dior Petit Caprice earrings in 18K white gold with 2.75 carats […]

This story originally appeared in the September/October 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. Animal-inspired jewels take you on a journey across Africa’s rolling savannas, into the South African bush or to the wilderness in Australia. Rich yellow gold, detailed enamel and lacquer, and a host of earth-toned gemstones create lifelike, miniature pieces of art celebrating the diversity of wildlife. Van Cleef & […]

This story originally appeared in the July/August 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. There’s something about blue sapphires that jewelers find bewitching. Historically, blue sapphires have been associated with royalty and nobility, and thanks to the British royal family, it has made a resurgence in engagement rings. In today’s high jewelry, the more intense blue stones seem to radiate their own light […]

This story originally appeared in the July/August 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. When rendered in diamonds, opals and glittering colored gemstones, insects are more than welcome at a garden party. Anna Hu’s sensational high jewelry delights collectors with its intricate work and impeccable settings. In her butterfly ring, a wild mix of gems including opals, diamonds, moonstones and Paraíba tourmalines come […]

This story originally appeared in the May/June 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. Although it’s an unexpected base for fine jewelry, don’t overlook wood. Artisans elevate the humble material with fine craftsmanship, precious metals and, of course, diamonds. Brazilian designer Silvia Furmanovich specializes in marquetry, creating incredibly detailed jewelry and clutches from tiny pieces of hand-cut and hand-painted wood. Her cherry blossom […]

This story originally appeared in the May/June 2018 issue of Elite Traveler. One of jewelry’s most enduring traditions, carving motifs into precious gems, can bring a lightness to significant stones, as well as be simply breathtaking. Secret watches frequently incorporate carved stones that slide away to reveal the time. Graff is particularly adept at this, creating beautiful pieces that marry its […]

After speaking with American jewelry designer Paul Morelli, one thing became abundantly clear: my small-town Nebraska childhood was even less eventful than I remembered it being – at least compared to Mr Morelli’s childhood! While I went home after school every day to chores and homework, Morelli went to his father’s costume shop, which he says, “was filled with sewing […]