The Jazz Age roars through Tiffany & Co's latest collection of fine jewellery, leaving in its brilliant wake gems that evoke the glamour and exuberance of this moment in history, immortalised in Scott Fitzgerald's novel 'The Great Gatsby', which was first published in 1925. Following on from the jewels created for the stars of the film - directed by Baz Luhrmann in collaboration with his wife Catherine Martin - to wear on screen, Tiffany has also launched yet more jewels inspired by this seminal work of fiction.
Purveyor of jewels to Scott Fitzgerald as well as the millionaires of the era, Tiffany delved into its archives and created a whole collection of fine jewels called the 'The Great Gatsby' collection, which launched alongside the film. Those who have seen the film will know that Tiffany's jewels shine through in some of its most unforgettable moments. Think of the opening scene in which Daisy, played by Carey Mulligan, is presented. The first hint of Daisy's presence is the sight of a decadently large diamond ring on her pretty little hand, nonchalantly draped over the back of a sofa. And then, of course, there were the fabulous party scenes where the pair of pearl and diamond hand jewels and a jaunty headpiece tell us of the Buchanan's vast wealth and the ease with which these 'careless people' - to quote Fitzgerald - wear their riches. And the jewels weren't limited just to the female protagonists. Details such as the 'daisy' ring and 'JG' monogrammed cufflinks and cigarette case added authentic period details to Leonardo DiCaprio's Jay Gatsby.
Jon King, Executive Vice President of Tiffany & Co, who I interviewed at the launch of the collection in New York, told me: "The collection celebrates Tiffany as the premier jeweller of the 1920s, an era that saw a dramatic change in fashion and the rise of a fresh, exuberant attitude." And it certainly is exuberant. Bold cocktail rings with symmetrical Art Deco patterns speak of the brave, new optimism of the era, a magical moment for those who lived between the two World Wars and enjoyed new wealth and freedom that exploded into an opulent lust for life.
Capturing the Gatsby mood, luxurious ropes of pearls ending in long tassels and diamond drop earrings swing and sway with each movement. In contrast, delicate, blushing-pink conch pearls hang like tender tears from a two-strand swagged diamond choker. A diamond daisy brooch dips its delicate head to form an elegant curve and draw the eye to the yellow diamond burning sun bright at its centre. And of course there are Gatsby's enamelled cufflinks with his initials 'JG' or his beloved daisy flower, and the cigarette cases that shut with a satisfying snap.
As great designs last beyond decades, eras and the frenzy of the moment, these timeless jewels look ready to take a starring role in a great, new love story.
