THE JOURNAL

Launched last week with a carefully curated selection of exquisite timepieces, the Handmade Edit is MR PORTER’s celebration of hand-crafted and one-of-a-kind creations from the world of luxury watches and fine jewellery. It’s an opportunity for us to showcase some of our favourite rare and unique pieces that demonstrate the incredible craftsmanship on offer today.
The world of jewellery represents one of the oldest traditions of handcraft in human existence. Fashions may ebb and flow, but the art of working precious metals and stones lives on, continuing a lineage that dates back thousands of years. To celebrate the vibrant industry that these generations of knowledge have birthed, we have selected pieces from a handful of brands, from Paris to Los Angeles, that marry that age-old respect for the materials at hand with a distinctly modern sensitivity.
Featuring statement necklaces and rings as well as understated pendants and bracelets, with a variety of finishes and materials from enamelling, precious stones, fine metal work and recycled gold, these are artful creations to be treasured, but also to be worn. Whether it’s a vintage heirloom watch or a bold contemporary charm necklace, one thing is constant: the handcraft that goes into them, as it always has.
01.
The one-of-a-kind SHAY statement chain

While we wouldn’t expect any less from SHAY, the LA-based, mother-and-daughter duo known for their bold use of precious gemstones, this fully set necklace featuring 65 carats of VSF diamonds set in 18k white-gold is an all-out statement. A one-of-one piece, it will add instant impact to any look, it’s sturdy curb chain of blazing diamonds seamlessly marrying timeless elegance with contemporary aesthetics.
02.
The Suzanne Kalan Art Deco ring

Part of an exclusive capsule collection for MR PORTER, this wide, soft gold ring calls to mind early 20th-century motifs. It is set with green malachite and a row of baguette-cut diamonds, a signature of the brand (another mother and daughter powerhouse), in an equally recognisable geometric and stacked placement. The striking and unfussy design means that even a relatively large ring like this feels discreet, which may explain why the brand is a favourite among both celebrities and the jewel industry.
03.
The Healers Fine Jewelry astro-element pendant

Healers makes jewellery to heal. Each handmade piece from the Parisian duo has a thoughtful, personal intention behind it and includes symbols that express that – in this case, the zodiac water element (don’t worry, there are three more pendants available for you fire, air and earth signs). The simplicity of hammered recycled gold and the delicate chain’s versatile length make this an ideal option for stacking and layering with other necklaces from your collection.
04.
The OLE LYNGGAARD “I mean business” ring

Royally approved OLE LYNGGAARD COPENHAGEN produces stunning, sculptural creations in its Danish workshop, often taking the natural world as inspiration. This ring, with its weighty cushion-cut London blue topaz surrounded by diamonds, has a decidedly masculine air. The inky depth of the distinctive gem is offset against rich gold, embellished with engraved stars on the underside that in turn echo the night-sky hue of the stone. Is it just us, or does this look like a ring just waiting to be kissed?
05.
The wild-style Annoushka charm necklace

For those who are willing to go all-out, the exuberance of something like Annoushka’s intricate, multicoloured charm necklace is a sure-fire conversation piece. A prime slice of Americana, the handmade gold and multi-stone necklace is exclusive to MR PORTER. Fully customisable, charms including “Maine Lobster Locket”, “Florida Flamingo” and “Arizona Cactus” can be removed, mixed and matched on the wide cable link chain according to your every whim.
06.
The relaxed Healers Fine Jewelry link bracelet

When we said Healers makes jewellery to heal, we meant it – each carefully chosen, ethically sourced colourful gem is imbued with meaning, in the case of this elegant bracelet, the naturally shaped garnet and jasper offering the wearer protection and loving vibes. Recycled gold makes an appearance again, the loose links and untumbled stones giving a subtle, casual appearance to what is on closer inspection an exquisitely crafted item.
07.
The Suzanna Kalan midnight gemstone

Another addition to our exclusive capsule collection, this white gold rectangular pendant is strung on a matching chain and set with lapis lazuli and more of the brand’s signature baguette-cut diamonds. The deep, speckled blue of the precious stone – a favourite of many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians – is reminiscent here of an intergalactic vista. Perfect for finishing off a holiday party outfit, we might suggest.
08.
The Healers Fine Jewelry confidence amulet

This recycled gold necklace features a candy-coloured faceted pink tourmaline that looks good enough to sink your teeth into. (And baring your teeth in the form of a grin is what you might well do, as this stone is said to increase confidence and dispel fear.) The pendant’s understated design belies its superb workmanship, and it pairs well with other chains, meaning your fierce companion’s true power can be kept under wraps, or shown off as a single, effective piece.