3 minute read
Treasures in Gold
LEE MICHAELS FINE JEWELRY HAS FOSTERED a reputation for bringing some of the world’s greatest jewelry artisans to our community. The introduction of the Fine Jewelry line by Temple St. Clair is a perfect example of that discerning eye.
President and co-owner Chad Berg says, “We are excited to be able to bring our clients Temple St. Clair’s unique and exquisite jewelry designs, which are truly works of art.”
New Orleans annually takes a turn through historical themes during the season of Carnival. In a similar way, Temple St. Clair’s designs pay homage to classic techniques and inspired design, featuring distinctive gold work to illustrate historical and natural themes. With a focus on a variety of colored stones, both precious and semi-precious, set in an intricate frame of gold, the treasures speak in the languages of art, architecture, textiles and mythology.
During the 1980s, while studying in Florence, St. Clair began her collaboration with a group of gifted artisans that continues today. This centuriesold goldsmiths’ guild infuses her work with iconic classical foundations. From that base, she creates the signature looks she is known for. The collection includes amulets and coins, pendants, rings and earrings. The unifying element is gold, rich in texture, accented with exceptional stones in cabochon and cut styles.
When discussing her work, St. Clair clarifies the subtle distinction between semi-precious and precious stones. Any stone that is not a diamond, ruby, emerald or sapphire is considered semi-precious, but this is not in any way indicative of the stone’s value or rarity. She counts collecting and working with these earthly treasures among the best facets of her job.
In 2017, St. Clair joined Louis Comfort Tiffany and Alexander Calder as only the third American jewelry designer whose work is represented in the permanent collection of the Museum of Decorative Arts at the Louvre in Paris. More than fashion elements, her jewelry is collectible art.
The Fine Jewelry collection is recognized for the use of iconic rock crystal amulets, triple granulation and archer’s granule designs; all are signature brand elements with a nod to the designer’s classical foundation.
Working with these elements has allowed this storyteller to incorporate classical themes and elements in an evolving and expanding line of unique jewelry pieces. Drawing on a historical perspective, she particularly loves shining a spotlight on important moments in time. Though we may consider gemstones as simply ornamental, in history, ancient civilizations around the world have attributed metaphysical properties and great significance to gems. It is important, and fun, to understand the properties, histories and beliefs surrounding gemstones.
Temple St. Clair’s jewels are treasured by devoted collectors. Her collections are sold throughout North America, Europe and Japan.
