Didn’t want 2019 to pass by without acknowledging an important 2019 milestone for the jewelry house of Verdura: its 80th anniversary.
Founded in 1939 and in operation since founder Duke Fulco di Verdura’s retirement in 1973, Verdura was acquired in 1983 by father-and-son investors (and aesthetes) Ward and Nico Landrigan, who act as stewards of the brand (and of Belperron as well—JCK was treated to a private tour of both salons last year).
They also must maintain Verdura’s relevance and allure in a crowded luxury marketplace with introductions of new jewelry designs. But these are rolled out thoughtfully, and in moderation, always with the collector in mind.
Lucky for the Landrigans, they are in possession of an archive of nearly 10,000 heritage designs to be re-created and reimagined. Over the years they have interpreted the most storied and enduring of Verdura’s jewelry style icons into modern high jewelry pieces that telegraph the distinctive bold Verdura look that Diana Vreeland, Coco Chanel, and many others adored and championed while captivating the fancies of more recent generations of jewelry lovers.
A commemorative 80th anniversary collection was unveiled earlier this year, and it hits all the important notes, including two very special limited-edition black and white Maltese cuffs.
But I’ve chosen to showcase pieces with a more festive vibe—bright green and blue rings inspired by the iconic Night & Day cufflinks Verdura created in 1939 as a tribute to friend and composer Cole Porter; Baby Byzantine ear clips that turn any outfit into a glamorous party with their splendid arrangement of gems; two holiday reimaginings of a heritage tassel necklace, and more.
The rest are favorites from Verdura’s 2019 holiday catalog. Each is a kind of yuletide carol, alternately something jazzy and retro, à la “Santa Baby,” or something lush, orchestral, and grand like the Nutcracker‘s overture.
I’m so very into all of it. And here’s to 80 more years of greatness. Someone cue up “Auld Lang Syne”—I’ll bring the Champagne.
Top: Byzantine pendant brooch with amethyst center stone, emeralds, and other colored gemstones in 18k gold, price on request. The defining mosaic motif in Verdura’s Byzantine collection was inspired by the mosaics found in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy.
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