It is not often that newcomers to the jewelry trade are
embraced virtually overnight. This is particularly true for artisans who fall
outside the standard style that is currently hot. More importantly, when their
pieces only use the finest stones – and therefore command higher prices – it
can be even more difficult for a newcomer to break through. Not so for Cathy
Waterman.
Although her first collection did not sell until 1990, Cathy Waterman has made a huge impact on the Hollywood
greats. Julia Roberts and Vanessa Hudgens have been spotted wearing her
designs. In fact, plenty of her pieces have become de rigueur for televised
awards shows.
One of the most interesting aspects of her design approach
is the choice of materials. Waterman believes in the use of fair trade gems and
recycled metals. Do not be surprised to find her reuse a platinum setting, a
diamond or high-karat gold. The artist views the creation of each piece as the
birth of a jewel that someone picks because it means something to the person.
Inspiration for her pieces is plentiful in nature. It takes
little for the artist to see a vista and then expand on it in her mind with
flora or fauna. Before long, the idea for a new jewelry item is born. The
overall flair of Waterman jewelry is ethereal, slightly Gothic and with a
rustic undertone that makes it suitable for adorning the neck of a fairy
princess or finger of a storybook queen.
Some pieces have decidedly a medieval appearance. Cases in
point are her rings that feature black diamonds and leaf designs in gold
settings. Others are modern in appearance but clearly show off traditional design elements. A hand-painted “Eye of Love” pendant is a beautiful example of
this type of work. With ivory serving as a canvas, lacy edging holds champagne
diamonds. With a blackened background, the 22-karat gold is a beautiful
showstopper.
Other breathtaking pieces include cocktail rings. Garlands offset the
center-set diamonds, which play off the color of the band. Scalloped framing
halos tanzanite or pink sapphire for wearers who enjoy bigger gems. It is safe
to say that when you walk into a room wearing a Waterman creation, you are most
likely going to draw the eyes of everyone in attendance. The pieces are unique
and beautifully shaped. They show off artistry and superior craftsmanship. Most
importantly, they do not look like anything that came off an assembly line. The
hallmark of a true Waterman piece is an appearance that brings to mind a
jeweler’s well-worn work bench.
While Cathy Waterman is not in the bridal industry market,
she does offer a “Love of My Life” collection, which is her take on engagement
and wedding jewelry. Once again, the pieces bespeak rings fit for a royal
bride. While it is clear that these jewels are intended as engagement and
wedding pieces, they do not fit the typical mold. Instead, they feature a
variety of designs that are in keeping with the classic Waterman blueprint.
Peter Suchy Jewelers are experts in vintage and estate
jewelry and we invite you to visit our showroom located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut. Love shopping for estate or vintage jewelry
online? Head on over to our eBay store.
We hope you’ll like us on Facebook and check out our amazing
Pinterest Boards full of stunning pieces from a plethora of designers!
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