In the world of high jewellery, few names evoke the level of reverence that Harry Winston commands. Known as the King of Diamonds, Winston's legacy is intertwined with the glitz and glamour of New York City. This year, the legendary jeweler pays homage to his beloved hometown with the New York Collection—a breathtakingly series that captures the essence of the city through dazzling gems and impeccable craftsmanship.
A Storied Legacy Rooted in New York
By the 1950s, Harry Winston had earned his place among the world’s most esteemed jewelers, with a reputation for acquiring and cutting some of the most extraordinary stones ever discovered. His nickname, the King of Diamonds, was well-deserved, and his slogan, Rare Jewels of the World, was a testament to his commitment to bringing the finest gems to his Manhattan clientele.
Yet, as much as Winston sought treasures from across the globe, he was a New Yorker through and through. Born to immigrants, Winston’s beginnings were humble, with his father running a small jewelry shop on the city’s west side. Even as a young boy, Winston displayed a remarkable intuition for gems. The story of how he identified a precious emerald among a pile of costume jewelry at the age of 12—purchasing it for 25 cents and later selling it for $800—has become legendary.
This unique blend of grit, determination, and brilliance is something only a city like New York could cultivate. It’s no wonder, then, that the New York Collection feels like a love letter to the city—a reflection of the deep connection between Harry Winston and the vibrant metropolis that shaped him.
A Collection Inspired by the Big Apple
Drawing inspiration from the iconic landmarks, architecture, and energy of New York City, the New York Collection is a visual feast of gemstones and design. Each piece tells a story, capturing the spirit of the city that never sleeps.
Avenue Suite: Named after the prestigious Fifth Avenue, this suite combines Art Deco influences with classic Winston details. The Avenue Classic Graffiti high jewelry timepiece is a standout, with its white gold, diamond-set case mimicking the architecture of the brand’s flagship store. The dial, adorned with blue and pink sapphires, brings a modern twist to the timeless design.
Brownstone Collection: A tribute to the Upper West Side, where Winston was born, the Brownstone collection evokes the charm of New York’s famous townhouses. Diamonds in various cuts—round brilliant, baguette, square emerald, and marquise—are arranged in geometric patterns reminiscent of the city’s architecture. The addition of emeralds, blue sapphires, rubies, and pink sapphires adds a touch of color and elegance.
Central Park: Even a workaholic like Winston needed a break, and Central Park provided a serene escape. The Central Park high jewelry ring, set with a 3.16-carat square emerald-cut emerald and accented with diamonds, reflects the natural beauty and tranquility of the park.
City Lights: Inspired by the glamour of Broadway, where Winston and his wife Edna often enjoyed shows, the City Lights collection reimagines the theater’s dazzling lights with a cascading pair of round brilliant rubies and yellow diamonds, complemented by colorless diamonds. It’s a nod to the couple’s love for the arts and the city’s vibrant nightlife.
HW Graffiti: Embracing the vibrant culture of SoHo, the HW Graffiti collection brings street art to high jewelry. Brooches set with pink sapphires and Paraiba tourmalines capture the essence of New York’s dynamic art scene, while diamond-set pieces create a striking 3D effect.
Manhattan Adornment: The Art Deco skyscrapers that define Manhattan’s skyline are reinterpreted in the Manhattan Adornment collection. This stunning necklace, featuring a combination of pink and blue sapphires, aquamarines, and diamonds, evokes the light of sunrise on the city’s architectural wonders.
718 Marble Marquetry: Finally, the 718 Marble Marquetry series pays homage to the jeweler’s flagship location on Fifth Avenue. The design draws from the elegant black-and-white marble floors and the iconic vitrines that line the store. A standout piece features a 0.80-carat emerald-cut diamond, framed by sapphires and diamonds, capturing the grandeur and sophistication of the brand’s home.
A Love Letter to New York
With the New York Collection, Harry Winston not only celebrates the city that gave him his start but also reaffirms the deep connection between the jeweler and his hometown. Each piece is a testament to the artistry, heritage, and unwavering spirit of both Winston and the city of New York. For those who wear these jewels, it’s not just about owning a beautiful piece—it’s about carrying a piece of New York with them, wherever they go.
In the glittering world of high jewelry, few collections are as personal or as poignant as this. The New York Collection is more than just a tribute—it’s a celebration of the heart and soul of New York through the eyes of one of its greatest jewellers. And for that, it’s truly something to behold.
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