“Press Preview was created to give our Couture designers a focused opportunity to meet with the industry press in a relaxed setting, while they plan their holiday books. The concept was launched two years ago and has already proven to be an incredible success since it is attended by the best publications in our industry,” explained Gannon Brousseau, Director of the prestigious Couture Show.

Exquisite opal, gemstone, and diamond pendant by Pamela Huizenga

Pamela Huizenga showcased her unique ability to pair unusual and rare gemstones with her chic and timeless jewelry designs. Inspired by the dichotomies in nature, she expresses both the calming and dramatic force of the oceans, the serene and yet vibrant colors of the deserts and the contrasting hues of the world’s forests. Most of her creations are one-of-a-kind pieces, designed with exacting specifications, with stones that the designer has sourced from around the globe. Among her more unusual creations seen at the Press Preview were pieces made with fossilized coral as well as her exquisite signature opals.

Purple pearl, amethyst, and diamond earrings by Yoko London

A world-renowned specialist in luxury pearl jewelry, Yoko London showcased an exquisite range of pearl jewelry representing a range of colors, from white to gold and from gray to black, while passing by the unusual shades of pink and purple. “The trend in pearls today is towards pink and purple,” explains Michael Hakimian, CEO. The brand’s selection of pink, lilac, and even intense purple pearls exhibiting a fine luster were exceptional. Boldly feminine, more than 70 percent of Yoko London’s pearl jewelry is individually handcrafted.

Selection of whimsical and sculptural rings in gold and diamonds by Anthony Lent

Anthony Lent’s highly detailed, unconventional style could be seen in Old World craftsmanship combined with his highly personal and particular vision. Inspired by sculptural figures, celestial bodies, human faces, and fabled creatures, Lent’s pieces embody elegant whimsy. Detailed metalwork is often combined with diamonds and other gemstones, which adorn his pieces on all sides, bringing a sculptural dimension to his work, all designed and handcrafted in Pennsylvania.

Enamel and gold pendant inspired by Anatolian culture by Pinar Öner

Istanbul-based Pınar Öner dedicates her work to the ancient civilizations of Anatolia. A designer, researcher and traveler, she draws inspiration from old texts, folklore, ruins, and artifacts. Her search for unique motifs, stylistic elements, and patterns provides a look into the past with a contemporary interpretation and flair. Pınar’s jewelry is handcrafted in her atelier in the Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, the oldest and best-known bazaar in the world.

Gold, diamond, and gemstone pendant by Buddha Mama

The Buddha Mama brand showcased a jewelry line inspired by Buddhist and other eastern philosophies. Founder Nancy Badia incorporates a range of eclectic items into her designs, such as Tibetan wood, Middle Eastern beads, mountain coral, and custom-made tassels, which all co-exist harmoniously with more traditional gemstones. Every bead used in her work typically features an intricate design—usually the Dharma-wheel, Mandala, or Buddha, symbols that are often evoked throughout the entire collection.

Gemstone pendant featuring the signature magnetic clasp by Clara Williams Company

On a different note, the jewelry seen at Clara Williams Company, founded in 2001, epitomize versatility and innovation. The brand’s signature magnetic clasp allows its necklaces to be worn alone or embellished with a variety of centerpieces that virtually snap into place. Clara’s fascination with technology has also led her to design other patent-pending adapters that expand the versatility and function of her jewelry.