Sometimes I buy a single piece from a brand, something with a wonderful design, to have the hands-on experience of studying the construction and the fun of researching the brand.
Today, I want to share with you a beautiful bracelet by Hutton Wilkinson. While it is not unusual for fashion designers to also create jewelry designs, it is intriguing to see jewelry designed by a famous interior design artist like Wilkinson. He has a fascinating history.
Wilkinson, beginning at age 18, apprenticed with legendary American costume, stage, and interior design artist Tony Duquette. Five years later, Wilkinson started his own brand. Even though Wilkinson was no longer Duquette’s apprentice, the men worked together on many projects over the next 25 years.
In 1998, Wilkinson and Duquette designed a fine jewelry collection of one-of-a-kind pieces for the Bergdorf Goodman store in Manhattan.
Some of the designs are organic in shape including the starburst designs. The designs are usually symmetrical. However, some designs are overflowing with a tapestry of different, asymmetrical stones and dangling pearls.
Tony Duquette died in 1999. Since that time, Wilkinson continues to honor his legacy. He authored several books on Tony Duquette including More is More TONY DUQUETTE. Wilkinson is currently the Creative Director and President of Tony Duquette Inc. and maintains the website www.tonyduquette.com
For a short time, Hutton Wilkinson sold home furnishings and costume jewelry on the HSN. The exact dates are unclear – approximately 2010 – 2014. The costume jewelry pieces, in limited numbers can be found in online auctions.
The following bracelet is described by Wilkinson in The Buzz Mesmerizing New Arrivals from Hutton Wilkinson Jewelry January 13, 2011.
You won’t want to miss the “Mata Hari” pave crystal bracelet with simulated malachite (one of my favorite stones)! This is a big cuff and a big look from me to you, and there is a great ring to match! Bring out your lady-of-mystery when wearing these jewels.
https://blogs.hsn.com/extras/mesmerizing-new-arrivals-from-hutton-wilkinson-jewelry/21526/
Wilkinson’s “Mata Hari” cuff bracelet is large and heavy. The circumference is 10″ with a height of 1 3/4″. It easily fits an 8″ wrist.
The pavé crystal stones surrounding the faux malachite stones are set in silver tone metal. The rest of the bracelet is gold plated.
It is a symmetrical design except for the asymmetrical swirls of color in the faux malachite stones. There are a total of five faux malachite stones with the largest stone in the center.
The bracelet is hinged on one side. The back is beautifully decorated with distinctive stars.
This bracelet is signed CHINA with the Hutton Wilkinson logo.
If you have time, view examples Hutton Wilkinson jewelry (fine and costume) online – they are very interesting. Of course, his interior designs are, too!
Happy Collecting and Happy New Year,
Love,
Julie