Aaaaand really, really in a position to indulge their passion for jewelry no matter the cost. Because the only way to get your hands on these gem-encrusted credit cards is through a membership with a European-based luxury lifestyle and travel management service targeting the 0.01%.
Called Insignia, it recently debuted in the United States through a partnership with the New York–based private equity firm Certares—part of the arrangement involves offering clients access to the Jewellery Card, an unimaginably luxe, fully functional credit card (Visa for now, more networks to come) that comes in a number of surprisingly beautiful designs.
Naturally that’s what interested me most about the Jewellery Card. The intricacy of the designs (pictured above and below) reminds me of the subject of my favorite jewelry book from last year, a magical compendium of cigarette cases, powder compacts, and minaudières from the Art Deco era.
Welcome to the Roaring ’20s 2.0.
Made by a team of artisans, inlay specialists, and stone setters in Switzerland, the designs draw from the mythologies of ancient cultures, classical themes of world history, the works of great artists, and the beauty of the natural world. The EMV chip is integrated seamlessly into the composition so that the design is never compromised. And, perhaps more importantly, you can transact as effortlessly as you might with your plain-old premium Amex.
You can also commission a design completely customized to your whims and specifications.
The ready-to-wear options can go for as much as $200,000, depending on the materials used. This would not be the one to accidentally leave behind at the bar after a few martinis.
Top: Ocean credit card with lazurite, pearl, turquoise, mother-of-pearl, and nephrite inlay set with white, blue, and yellow diamonds, and pink sapphires in 14k white gold, price on request
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