COUTURE show: best jewels made of gold

July 31, 2017

By Katerina Perez

6 min read

The final instalment of my exploration through the best jewellery of the Couture showcase in Las Vegas is dedicated to gold jewellery. Although most of the pieces throughout the showcase incorporated gold in the settings, these pieces treated gold as the main design material, and utilised its beauty to enhance the jewellery itself to its fullest potential.

  href=”http://www.aidabergsen.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Aida Bergsen 

Aida Bergsen showcased a piece which invoked the ornate beauty of gold craftsmanship, this gold-plated locket features enamel which lays behind the cut away gold front, allowing for glimpses of the stunning green colour to catch your eye. The oriental influences are obviously apparent in this locket, and the intricate long chain stays true to this theme with its asymmetric trefoil links dappled throughout, a detail which invites you to keep looking, and continue admiring this necklace.  

Aida Bergsen yellow gold plated locket with green enamel. Photo by Simon Martner

Aida Bergsen yellow gold plated locket with green enamel. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”http://www.antonini.it/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Antonini

The simplicity of some gold jewellery is what makes it precious, and these Antonini pieces are just that. The statement Siracusa cuff and matching ring create a set which is incredibly contemporary in its design, yet the quality of these gold pieces ensures that they will last for a lifetime. The selection of fine gold ‘midi’ rings to be worn higher on the finger are another fashionable addition to the brand’s line, and perfectly appeal to those who wish to wear stylish jewellery without compromising on quality.

Antonini Siracusa cuff and rings in yellow gold with diamonds.  Photo by Simon Martner

Antonini Siracusa cuff and rings in yellow gold with diamonds. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”http://buddhamama.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Buddha Mama

Buddha Mama created one of the most charming pieces of gold jewellery which was on display at the Couture showcase; this 18k gold figurehead of Ganesh, adorned with diamonds, blue sapphires and pink sapphires. Not only is Ganesh covered in gemstones, he also has his own set of articulated earrings! Although this feature is very charming, what really impressed me is the amount of sculptured details on the rings that are so neatly sculptured.

Buddha Mama Ganesh ring in yellow gold with coloured gemstones and diamonds.  Photo by Simon Martner

Buddha Mama Ganesh ring in yellow gold with coloured gemstones and diamonds. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”http://www.garavellidesignitaly.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Garavelli

Traditional materials need not be predictable, as Garavelli proved with this 18k rose gold set of a flexible choker necklace and three large statement rings. The ‘Capetonne’ choker has one single link which is covered in white diamonds, with a glimpse of this sparkle alluding to a playful hint of luxury. The three ‘Drago’ rings incorporate white and brown diamonds, as well as a special black colouring to one of the rose gold rings, which retain a masculine, retro edge for precious metal jewellery.

Garavelli Capetonne chocker in yellow gold and diamonds and Drago rings.  Photo by Simon Martner

Garavelli Capetonne chocker in yellow gold and diamonds and Drago rings. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”https://www.jordanalexanderjewelry.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Jordan Alexander

The name ‘Jordan Alexander’ was based on the creator’s sons, and the youthful influence doesn’t stop there with this brand’s modern take on gold jewellery. Employing the traditional box chain, brand’s designer Theresa Harper Bruno has re-worked these individually cast, hammered gold chain links into more complex designs – creating chains of differing lengths which can be worn layered, and one chain with ‘trapped’ 3cts peridot, 2cts rhodolite garnet and 2cts blue topaz encased behind the gold bars of the box chain, yet still visible.  

Jordan Alexander yellow gold chain with peridot, rhodolite garnet and blue topaz.  Photo by Simon Martner

Jordan Alexander yellow gold chain with peridot, rhodolite garnet and blue topaz. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”https://www.jsay.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Julien Riad Sahyoun

A few of the pieces which I couldn’t fail to mention for their exceptional design and elegant craftsmanship were from the ‘Just Revolution Skin’ collection by Julien Riad Sahyoun. Incorporating 18k yellow gold, 18k rose gold and 18k white gold, the precious metals have been allowed to be the star of the show in this collection. They are enhanced by a smattering of brown and white diamonds that create an impression of fine sparkle across each piece. The perfectly ergonomic design allows for the jewellery, which sits flush to the skin, to feel as though it becomes a part of the wearer. 

Just Revolution Skin bracelets and rings by Julien Ryad Sahyoun. Photo by Simon Martner

Just Revolution Skin bracelets and rings by Julien Ryad Sahyoun. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”http://marianijewellers.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Mariani

Taking dynamic jewellery making to new heights, this wonderful tassel necklace from the ‘Darya’ collection by Mariani, is a great example of elegant yet playful jewellery. It features 3.82ct of diamonds that graduate through the tassels and form one large diamond covered raindrop at the base of the articulated gold tassels. The diamonds continue through the chain sporadically, and as this type of long, delicate, dangling jewellery is the signature style of the Mariani brand, the entire piece has been created with the utmost artistry.  

Mariani Darya tassel necklace in yellow gold with diamonds. Photo by Simon Martner

Mariani Darya tassel necklace in yellow gold with diamonds. Photo by Simon Martner

href=”http://www.vanleles.com/” rel=”noopener noreferrer” target=”_blank”>Vanleles

Representing the ethical side of the precious metal industry, Vanleles created a fair-trade gold Sahara collarette, which used 3.35ct brilliant cut diamonds in a concentric circle design. This type of jewellery allows the materials to be the focus of the piece, rather than overly complex design or production techniques, here the quality and provenance of the materials speak for themselves.

Vanleles Sahara chocker in yellow gold and diamonds. Photo by Simon Martner

Vanleles Sahara chocker in yellow gold and diamonds. Photo by Simon Martner

The spectacular selection of design, influences and techniques on display at the Couture show in Las Vegas demonstrated the flexibility and variation in gold jewellery, as well as in all other types of fine jewellery creation. I left feeling inspired, and full of anticipation for next year’s event! 

Faidee to hold its inaugural exhibition of Burmese rubies:

continue reading

Blinded by the Light: The April Birthstone Through the Lens of Diamond Pavé

Let's consider pieces that showcase this method of craftsmanship in all its sparkling glory…

by Katerina Perez

Love Language: Introducing the Expressive Creations of Zome Jewellery

For designers like Meghna Biswas, the woman behind Zome Jewellery in the United Arab Emirates, the process of transforming coloured gemstones and precious metals into beautiful creations is an ever-evolving love language

by Katerina Perez

Diamond Garden: Creating Digital Delights with AI Artist Anastasia Rogozhina

Take a look and consider the incredible feats that artificial intelligence can achieve in empowering creativity and broadening our minds

by Katerina Perez

100 Years of Art Deco: Top 10 Pieces of Art Deco Jewellery Sold at Auction

From the legendary Van Cleef & Arpels Jarretière bracelet worn by Marlene Dietrich to a striking aigrette that was once part of the Al Thani collection, all the pieces below are infused with the fearless originality of the Jazz Age

by Claire Roberts

Spirited Jewels: The Expressive Creativity of Elena Semy Jewellery 

Today, I'd like to introduce you to the creative designs of Elena Semy Jewellery and Elena, the artist behind them

by Katerina Perez

Rings of Power: Bold Torques are Making a Fine Jewellery Comeback

This powerful necklace with ancient roots is reclaiming its place in contemporary jewellery collections. Its sleek yet rigid silhouette speaks to confident women who want to assert a quiet power. Plus, it is the perfect setting for a chic diamond drop. 

by Rachael Taylor

Ocean Depths: Sotheby’s to Auction the Fancy Vivid Mediterranean Blue Diamond 

This sensational stone is due to be unveiled globally in Abu Dhabi on April 8 and will be auctioned by Sotheby’s Geneva on May 13. Before the bidding flurry commences, let’s take a closer look at this rare blue specimen that’s estimated to sell for in the region of US$20 million

by Sarah Jordan

All That Jazz: 100 Years of Art Deco Jewellery

This wonderfully decadent period of Prohibition parties, glittering cocktail soirées and exuberant Art Deco jewellery, which straddled more than a quarter of a century from 1908 to 1935, had a profound effect on society that touched upon almost every aspect of life in its pursuit of beauty, with the worlds of art, adornment, fashion, interiors, architecture and technology all irreversibly changed as a result

by Claire Roberts

Girls Just Want To Have Fun: An Elevated Take On Nostalgic and Joyous Jewellery

The days have just gotten lighter, which makes them seem longer, indicating that Spring will soon be here. And today, on April Fool’s Day, we begin to feel a sense of frivolity and play. Therefore, we hope to put a smile on your face with this article dedicated to jewellery with a dash of humour and a whole lot of wit

by Beth Bernstein

Aquamarine Tales Part II: Epic Stones, Extraordinary Finds & Royal Treasures

Aquamarine has long been adored for its serene blue hues and storied past. But beyond its beauty lies a world of extraordinary discoveries, epic stones and tales of fate that seem almost too incredible to be true

by Katerina Perez

Tanzanite Temptations: The Gemstone Specialisms of the Royal Touch Group

I spoke to Royal Touch Group Principal Ashish Rawat about his third-generation family business, its beginnings in emeralds, and its ties to the global promotion and distribution of Tanzania’s famed blue gem

by Katerina Perez

Aquamarine Tales Part I:  Stories of Healing, Connection & Some Truly Extraordinary Gems

I’ve always been captivated by the stories behind jewels and gems, so to celebrate March’s birthstone, I recently took to Instagram and asked my audience to share their most memorable aquamarine tales

by Katerina Perez

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Century of Splendour:Louis Vuitton Awakened Hands, Awakened Minds Chapter II

Creative Director Francesca Amfitheatrof offers her unique interpretation of a pivotal period in France’s history, marked by the French Revolution, the Napoleonic era, and the rise of industrialism

by Sarah Jordan

Jewels Katerina Perez Loves

Continue Reading

Writing Adventures:Co-Authoring the Book

Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.