Look Book

36 | The Jewelr y Book High Jewelry Fire Opal Pendant with Diamonds featuring a Mexican Fire Opal (13.51cts), Diamonds (2.63tcw), and proprietary Green Patina, set in Silver and 24K Gold. Gold Sapphire and Diamond Cocktail Ring featuring a Gold Sapphire (53.13cts), Diamonds (1.63tcw), and Moonstones (0.50tcw), set in 24K and 18K Gold. Assortment of Gem-set Cuffs—both with and without Diamonds—set in 24K and 18K Gold, some featuring "python" or "crocodile" texture, some with proprietary Green or White Patina. by Michael Shulman "Victor Velyan is emblematic of the creativity, innovation and ingenuity that comprises our show's curation. Revered for his unparalleled work with important colored gemstones, his proprietary technique with patinas further distinguishes his singular designs." —Gannon Brousseau (Director, COUTUR E | EVP, Emerald) Y OU CAN SELECT a piece from any Victor Velyan collection— whether it's a cocktail ring featuring a fabulous cabochon-cut Muzo Emerald, a necklace of tumbled Black Tourmaline beads, or a pair of Mexican Fire Opal earrings—and watch as, aer putting it on, even the most shy and reserved wallflower transforms into someone positively brimming with confidence, verve, and more than a little nerve. Simply put, Victor Velyan designs jewelry that bestows upon its wearer a sense of empowerment and individuality. Who wouldn't stand up straighter wearing one of Velyan's signature gem-set cuffs, when it makes you feel a bit like Wonder Woman? More than most designers, it's quite difficult to separate Victor Velyan from his designs; so imbued are they with his very singular essence. Equal parts mad scientist, intrepid explorer, history buff, and the proverbial kid in the candy store, Velyan is always seeking new and exciting minerals and materials for his incredibly wearable pieces. Dioptase Druzy from the Democratic Republic of Congo in a vibrant shade of teal, Blue Opals from India containing fossilized moss, chatoyant Green Moonstones from Burma, Blue Lace Agate from Namibia, and 3-billion-year- old boysenberry-hued Rubies from Greenland are but a few of the incredible minerals and gemstones introduced to me by Velyan over the years in his booth at e COUTURE Show at Wynn Las Vegas. Sure, he enjoys a faceted stone as much as any jewelry designer, and he absolutely adores a cabochon, but more oen than not Velyan shies away from uniformity, preferring instead to recognize and amplify the unique asymmetrical beauty found in free-form stones and baroque pearls, not to mention the occasional rough or unpolished gem. Oentimes, of far more Gold and Diamond Drip Earrings featuring Diamonds (0.51tcw), set in 24K Gold and Silver, with proprietary Brown Patina. W E A R A B L E P R O Z A C Victor Velyan: Cuffs & Patinas & textures! Oh my!

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