The bling ring: 10 jewellery designers you need to know
Whether it’s a forever piece from a storied house or a unique style from a homegrown brand, these are the labels we have on our must-list
When it comes to jewellery, the aphorisms always spring thick and fast. “A woman needs ropes and ropes of Pearls,” Coco Chanel was said to have uttered. “I’ve never hated a man enough to give him his diamonds back,” said Zsa Zsa Gabor.
And Elizabeth Taylor, one of the most famous jewellery collectors in history, had this to say: “Big girls need big diamonds.” We concur, and preferably would love for our jewellery to come from these brands: our favourite accessories labels from both near and far.
Founded in 1847 in Paris by French jewellery Louis-François Cartier, the brand is synonymous with luxury, prestige and elegance. You’ve probably seen one of their iconic designs: the Tank watch, beloved of Princess Diana (and now Meghan Markle), the sophisticated Trinity collection, the inimitable Panthère rings and the Love bracelets, designed to be locked onto the wearer’s wrist and rarely removed. The brand is also known for its objects and home accessories, from cashmere blankets emblazoned with the Panthère logos to trays, board games and even some very chic Christmas baubles.
For more than 160 years, Hardy Brothers have been one of Australia’s most prestigious and respected jewellery brands, even appointed to the position of jewellers to the Queen. Renowned for their bespoke services, which allows customers to speak directly with master craftsmen to craft a timeless forever piece that speaks to a client’s individuality and personality, an item of jewellery from Hardy Brothers is something to be treasured forever and passed down as an heirloom.
In 1884, Greek silversmith Sotirio Bulgari established a jewellery house in Rome dedicated to craftsmanship, contemporary design and unforgettable design motifs. Since then, the brand has only grown in reputation and respect, and today is a label revered around the world for both its legacy and its innovation. One of their most recognisable designs, the slinky diamond Serpenti necklace that fastens with an elegant snake head clasp, has been worn by everyone from Charlize Theron to Laura Harrier and Bella Hadid.
This image is indelible: Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn), coffee and danish in hand, peering longingly into a jewellery store window in a scene from the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s. “Calms me down right away,” she says, “the quietness and the proud look of it. Nothing very bad could happen to you there.” Tiffany & Co, founded in 1837 by American jeweller Charles Lewis Tiffany, has always been an instantly recognisable brand, whether it’s a design featuring one of their trademark lock charms or a curved, fluid cuff from designer Elsa Peretti.
For four generations, the Repossi family have led the jewellery conversation through their eponymous brand. Today, the label is run by Gaia Repossi, who became artistic director of the family business in 2007 at the age of 21, ushering in a new era of creativity into the brand. Such as the label’s beloved curved Berbère ear cuff, studded with diamonds and circling the entire ear from lobe to cartilage.
Based in New York and founded by jewellery Caitlin Mociun, this fine jewellery brand uses colourful precious stones and unique designs to craft modern pieces that will slot seamlessly into your wardrobe and life. Known for her unusual engagement and wedding rings, more recently Mociun has made waves with its food-themed jewellery charms – think tiny, delicate little gold oysters, diamond-encrusted pizza slices and avocados.
If you want pearls, you know to go to Paspaley. The Australian brand, founded in the 1930s by 19-year-old Nicholas Paspaley, has grown to become a global destination for the in-demand stone.
Fine jewellery doesn’t come finer than Sarah & Sebastian, the minimal and chic Australian label known for its delicate pieces. Whether it’s a slim gold necklace adorned with a single diamond or a barely-there earring, wearing a Sarah & Sebastian piece is effortless.
Sculptural and standout, Holly Ryan jewellery pieces are designed to make a statement. Inspired by the natural world and the beauty of the human form, Ryan uses sustainable materials – including recycled metals and ethical stones – in her designs. The end result are jewellery pieces that are considered and thoughtful and intended to be worn for life.
Based in Brisbane, jeweller Natasha Schweitzer is one of Australia’s most in-demand luxury jewellery brands. It’s a family affair for the Schweitzers: mother Marion founded her own jewellery label in 1972 when she was just 16, which inspired her two daughters Natasha and Alexandra to launch their own brand in 2018. Today, Natasha Schweitzer is known for designs that are sophisticated and simple, with each piece handmade in Australia.