In spring 2023, jewelry designer Lauren Harwell Godfrey participated in a journey to Botswana alongside fellow creators. The group explored De Beers' primary diamond sorting facility in Gaborone, visited the Orapa diamond mine, and observed wildlife, such as elephants and lions, during a safari at Chobe National Park.
This adventure inspired Godfrey’s Masego Collection, drawing from the geometric designs seen in traditional Botswana baskets. She explains that these patterns influenced the collection's unique aesthetic.
Although renowned for her work with yellow gold, Godfrey opted to highlight platinum for key pieces in this collection, including an exquisite statement collar. "Platinum has a distinctive sharpness that sets it apart from yellow gold," she notes. "The engraved lines in this collar stand out with a level of precision that platinum uniquely achieves."
Platinum's Appeal in Jewelry Design
Godfrey isn’t the only designer embracing platinum. Amid rising gold prices, jewelers are turning to platinum for its strength and unique properties. Its durability makes it ideal for crafting delicate designs, such as intricate links that might otherwise distort in softer metals like gold. Moreover, its white sheen enhances the beauty of colored gemstones, as exemplified in Jade Ruzzo’s striking Cymbal Necklace featuring a golden zircon centerpiece.
Two-Tone Sophistication
Beirut-based designer Selim Mouzannar showcased a creative use of platinum paired with 18k gold in his serpentine Basilik Necklace, a versatile design that wraps elegantly around the neck or cascades down the back in a two-tone statement.
Timeless Platinum-Diamond Pairings
Pairing platinum with diamonds remains a classic choice. Shahla Karimi’s minimalist Cloud Choker and Retrouvaí’s vintage-inspired Magna Bracelet highlight how these materials complement each other beautifully.
Featured Designs
- Masego Necklace by Harwell Godfrey: Platinum, 18.34 cts. of malaya garnets, and 5.53 cts. of diamonds, priced at $98,500.
- Cymbal Necklace by Jade Ruzzo: Platinum with 4.19 ct. golden zircon on leather cord, priced at $12,800.
- Basilik Necklace by Selim Mouzannar: 18k gold and platinum with 8.14 cts. diamonds, price upon request.
- Cloud Choker by Shahla Karimi: Platinum with a 3 ct. pear-cut diamond, priced at $110,680.
- Magna Bracelet by Retrouvaí: Platinum with 4.58 cts. of tapered baguette and carré-cut diamonds, priced at $69,000.