What better way to show off that sun-kissed skin than beneath the exquisite gems crafted into coveted heirlooms by talented artisans? The likes of the centuries-old London-based House of Garrard and Graff, as well as Roman jeweller Bulgari and locally-made Charles Greig Jewellers are all making sure that this will be a summer to remember.
Everyday elegance
Since 1735, royalty and private clients have commissioned bespoke pieces alongside Garrard’s distinguished collections, which bear the quintessential British hallmarks of heritage and handcraftsmanship. This summer, the House pairs pink sapphire, rubellite and pink opal hoop earrings, with aquamarine and diamonds, making for some glamourous escapism. Whether strolling along the coastline, soaking up the rays of the setting sun at a bush boma or attending a soirée, these bright gems interspersed with everyday diamonds gleam in eye-catching necklaces, delicate bracelets and earrings that can be mixed and matched to suit the occasion and individual style.
Natural beauty
The ethereal butterfly, a heritage motif long part of the Graff oeuvre, represents good fortune, hope, strength and freedom. The creature’s allure lies in its captivating appearance and story, inspiring designers to craft exquisite pieces that encapsulate beauty, emotions and memories of life’s special moments. The result? Cherished heirlooms that connect generations.
“The DNA of Graff is very distinctive, and while a stone-led design philosophy guides us, we are also inspired by the world around us. The outline of a butterfly, which has become synonymous with Graff, has, over the decades, offered us endless opportunities for reinterpretation,” comments Anne-Eva Geffroy, design director at Graff. “The inner fire and life a diamond holds within make it the ideal medium to portray the natural beauty of the butterfly, and to give it permanence to endure through all of time.”
The Butterfly Collection offers styles ranging from delicate jewels that can be stacked, layered and worn daily to extraordinary high-jewellery creations.
Vibrant charm
Bulgari’s legacy has long been intertwined with the vibrant energy and language of coloured gemstones. The Bulgari Resort Capsule Collection of jewellery, watches, handbags and fragrances incorporates the Allegra line, illuminating the season’s selection with Mediterranean hues and an exuberant mix of gemstone cuts. Infused with geometric elegance, the Solar citrines, warm amethysts, tourmalines, peridots and blue topazes converge in a symphony of design completed with two harmonising rings and an enchanting pair of mismatched 18kt rose gold earrings.
Another component is the Colour Journey High Jewellery collection, which unveils a new chapter of the Kunzite and Morganite story via four exclusive destinations worldwide: Saint Tropez, Bodrum, Porto Cervo and Capri. This is the third episode in Bulgari’s Colour Journey saga – an ode to the unbridled delight of coloured gemstones, now delving into the modern and feminine nuances of Kunzite and Morganite, two treasures discovered by the visionary American mineralogist G.F. Kunz at the inception of the 20th century.
Made by hand
Designers at South African-based Charles Greig Jewellers look to the natural world for inspiration, resulting in a magnificent array of head-turning rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The yellow gold flower ring is the perfect statement piece for the season.
Flora and fauna feature and jewellery fans will appreciate the handcrafted detail that gives life to the endearing creatures of the family jeweller’s signature Bee Collection. If you like a walk on the wild side, you’ll love the frogs and crocodiles in the menagerie featured in the earrings and rings.
Of course, there are always vivid gemstone creations to cater to those who like big, bold jewellery or enjoy maximum sparkle with multi-gem compositions. The yellow gold multi-gem and pearl string necklace, classic gem cocktail ring and elegant pearl drop earrings are definite favourites.
