We’ve always known, but it seems that recently, celebrities are more aware of the power than a well-chosen gem of clothing. Throughout history we have seen bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings of all sizes and prices passing through red carpets and premieres, but the truth is that they are used much more by women than by men. However, the growing adoption of women’s clothing by men (and vice versa), as well as the era of luxury and camp taste (which seems to be coming to an end) has given us more and more jewels of luxury moments.
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One of the people behind this boom is jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz. A third generation diamond merchant family, the American took over the family business in 1989 and has since gone on to manufacture some of the most iconic pieces of modern times. From pop icons to billionaire royalty, Schwartz’s luxury pieces have become a favorite of those who can afford them, making New Yorker one of the most famous jewelers today.
The legendary rock genius David Bowie and the supermodel Iman, one of the most charismatic couples of the last century, signed in 1991 with a splendid ring with a canary yellow diamond, signed by Schwartz. Beyoncé, another big fan of the designer, has been wearing his work since 2011; in fact, the famous band she wears in her 2008 hit “Single Ladies” was designed especially for her by a stoner. Kanye Curse has also been a faithful follower of the collection and both he and his wife Kim Kardashian have been seen several times with some jewelry from the brand.
Another of the great reasons why today we see so many people proudly wearing all kinds of jewelry, although it may seem paradoxical, from the street. The aesthetic of rappers, rappers or R&B singers has been marked since its inception by displaying, whether it be expensive clothing or luxurious jewelry, to demonstrate the success of the talent. Considering how African-American culture, hip-hop, and sportswear, has gradually been introduced into the high fashion industry, it is more normal to see gold and diamonds in the men’s area.
Pharrell Williams is not only out of this world, but has proven to be a true Goldsmiths fan over the years. So much so that, recently, a special project called Joopiter launched a digital auction with the best collection of high-end personal jewelry. Launched in the fall of last year, the platform has already released the most exclusive products, such as Adidas Stan Smiths in Swarovski crystals, Louis Vuitton trunks and the purest gold portable player. Now, Louis Vuitton’s new creative director has officially announced the first auction of his flagship jewelry, A Journey Through Jewels, which features a collaboration with Lorraine Schwartz.
This auction will showcase the world’s precious stones and unique creations during Schwartz’s lifetime. Among the enhanced pieces are a loose 50-carat D flawless Type II heart-shaped diamond, a pair of 18-karat gold-colored four-diamond earrings with purple sapphire and natural paraiba, as well as an 18-karat bib necklace. white gold with Colombian diamonds and emeralds with matching earrings.
Pharrell himself arranged a select number of lots with Schwartz, including the sought-after 26-carat Asscher cut canary yellow diamond ring. In a statement about the upcoming collaboration with Joopiter Schwartz stated: “I was fortunate to know Pharrell twenty years ago, and to have forged an incredible friendship through a mutual appreciation of the world’s most exquisite and unique gems. For me, A Journey Through Gems is not only a selection of the finest high-end jewelry available today, but also the story of the journey and relationship is told through jewelry.”
A private preview will be held at Hong Kong Art Basel at the end of March, its first physical activation outside the United States. However, this long-awaited and historic price is now open online to those collectors who have the ability to acquire some of these precious pieces.