When one thinks of fine jewelry, classically elegant pieces in sleek, simple finishes tend to come to mind. However, designers have been increasingly pushing the boundaries of the art, and fine jewelry now readily combines a multitude of materials in unusual and often avant-garde settings. Here are several pieces that we feel represent the true world of fine jewelry today.
HB-IV Continuum Ombres et Lumière Pearl Bracelet, Hermès
Part of the fourth haute bijouterie collection created for the French house by Pierre Hardy, this one-of-a-kind bracelet is crafted from rose gold and encrusted with white Akoya and grey South Sea pearls. The clever combination of different shades of gems reflects the dynamic of light and shade explored by the designer this season, which in this piece is reminiscent of day fading into night.
Available from Hermès POA
Marquetry Geometric Yellow Wood Bracelet, Silvia Furmanovich
This elegant yet eye-catching bracelet by Silvia Furmanovich features an unexpected collection of materials combined in a simple gold setting, a signature of the Brazilian designer. Here, yellow-toned woods provide a dramatic geometric backdrop to the piece, which is offset by light brown diamonds and blue topaz.
Available from Swoonery.com
Why? Necklace, CVC Stones
Earthy, organic shapes define the work of CVC Stones' designer Charles de Viel Castel. This pebble necklace features a handpicked stone embellished with delicate diamonds, fastened to a elegant yellow gold chain.
Available from Moda Operandi
Setting Sun Stud Earrings, Astley Clarke
Crafted in their London studio, these dramatic Astley Clarke earrings feature an array of white diamonds set into 14 carat yellow gold, echoing a setting sun.
Available from Astley Clarke
2-Finger Ring, AS29
Belgian Audrey Savransky is the designer behind AS29, a provocative line of fine jewelry that combines tough elegance with a refined edge. This silver 2-Finger Ring from her latest collection is set with diamonds and black diamonds.
Available from Farfetch
Algae Earrings, Fernando Jorge
Part of the designer's current Bloom collection, which explores the ephemeral nature of the botanical world, these delicate earrings are crafted from 18 carat yellow gold combined with diamonds and emeralds. The familiar organic, sensual shape is a Fernando Jorge signature.
Available from Fernando Jorge POA
Jardin Japonais Bracelet, Lorenz Bäumer
This white gold bracelet studded with multiple gems was inspired by a Monet painting of a Japanese bridge in Giverny. White diamonds create the effect of sparkling water, while peridot, pink quartz and orange sapphires are among the stunning stones representing the flora and fauna.
Available from Lorenz Bäumer POA