18 best brands of jewelry

World of jewelry — the bigger and more serious than the trivial glitter of precious stones, alluring radiance of gold and tens of thousands of dollars for "that stupid thing?". Brands jewelry — real dinosaurs in the fashion industry. The story of a good half of them is over one hundred years. Therefore, a unique history, aura and handwriting the best masters are guessed at first glance at the pathetic ring or a modest pendant.

Types of gold

Pure gold as a chemical element is a material extremely soft, non-distinct color and quite durable. Therefore, the jewelry industry uses metal alloys containing gold in different percentage ratios.

It is the percentage of clean material in the final product and is determined by the number of sample – stamp on the decoration, confirming its authenticity. The amount of additives and also defines the color of the alloy. There are 3 main kind of gold shade:

• Yellow (traditional – with the addition of silver and copper)
• White (alloy of gold, silver, palladium and platinum)
• Red (the color saturation depends on the amount of copper)

There are also some additional colors, but the decorations of which are extremely rare and expensive:

• Pale shades of green (an alloy of gold with silver and cadmium)
• Grey and blue gold (alloy steel)
• Bright shades of green and blue (synthesis with rubidium and indium) – under development, earlier experiments were successfully conducted in South Africa, but mass production was not launched due to the economic inexpediency
• Purple (combination of gold with Galiya)
• Purple (aluminum composition)
• Black (add cobalt and chromium)

The last five types are not the alloy in the full sense of the word, as the procedure of their creation based on intermetallic compounds.

The authenticity and fineness.

The main indicator of the authenticity of the material from which made decoration, is test, an impression of which can be found most often on the inner side of the product, not the most obvious place. There are 3 major classification systems, of which the modern world uses only two:

• Metric. The figures show the amount of gold in percentage terms. In the USSR and Russia there were and are still 6 types of samples: 375, 500, 585, 750, 958, 999 (Bank gold)
• CT. This system is shared by Europe and the United States. Shows the proportion of net material product in karats, with Karat is equal to 1/24 the mass. The most common markings in 9, 10, 14, 18 and 24 carats.
• The slide (found in the antique jewelry, the time of manufacture until 1927). To put it in metric, you need to divide the original figure by 0.096.

In addition to print samples, there are several easy ways to check the product:

• Examine the piece of jewelry with a magnifying glass, check that the cut-outs (if any) fully coincided in size with the stones.
• Please note on the inside, the better it is treated, the better the product.
• Drop the decoration is in contact with the surface must be clean "crystal" sound.
• When choosing a pattern try to wind it on your fingers (if flexibility allows netting). It needs to be unwound easily and without the hassle of links.

French jewelry brands

Year established: 1847

French jewelry Cartier is synonymous with luxury and glamour. What is the fact that throughout the twentieth century, their crowns were worn by the Royal families all over Europe! Precious Panther on accessories turned into a real talisman and a symbol of success for the French masters. Iconic masterpieces of the brand women bracelet watch in 1888 and ring-Trinity. In addition to the classic set of jewelry, Cartier also create pens and lighters. And yet it Cartier as the inventor of clip — earrings, no clasps.

Rose gold triple ring symbolizes love, yellow – loyalty and friendship

17. Boucheron

Year of Foundation: 1858

The strength of the company — the ability to turn extravagant and bold decisions in beloved classics. Recognizable symbols Boucheron — jewellery, snake ring chameleon, sprigs of ivy. The handwriting of the brand is reflected in the use of colored gemstones, motifs of the Orient, flowers and wild animals, and feathers. The basic idea was to extravagance, scale and boldness in the solutions. Boucheron became the first who has released a watch with interchangeable strap.

In 2004, there was one symbol of the brand — Quatre ring of pink, white, yellow gold and ceramic, instantly became a cult classic. A jewelry collection Animaux animals became mascots of thousands of girls.

Ivy leaves – a favorite motif for inspiration in the creations of the Maison

16. Van Cleef & Arpels

Year established: 1896

The card brand — the flora and fauna motives, fairy-tale characters. Van Cleef & Arpels in many ways been pioneers. They introduced the first bracelet watch with concealed dial. The world at the time, was surprised with a necklace-zipper, which buttoned to wear as a bracelet. And from the shining diamond brooches, Van Cleef & Arpels Ballerina and Fairy in the form of dancing ballerinas and fairies, it is impossible to look away! One of the most recognizable and simultaneously copied luxury jewelry in the world — the legendary necklace "Alhambra" with the quatrefoil.

Legendary Alhambra necklace is named after the Muslim Palace of the Nasrid dynasty

Italian brands of jewelry

15. BVLGARI

Year of Foundation: 1884

Company name Bulgari was founded by Greek Sotirios boulgaris, which eventually migrated and Italy. In 1977 appears instead of U Latin capital letter V as a symbol of the roots of the brand. BVLGARI is the epitome of eye-catching glamor and prestige. One of the most recognizable jewelry wide band ring with engraved logo at bezel. A landmark collection is the Bulgari Serpenti Collection, which incorporate gold and platinum flakes of metal.

Distinctive features the spirit of the Italian Renaissance, geometric motifs, Roman classicism, avant-garde and colourful stones.

In jewelry brand clearly noticeable influence of the Italian and Greek jewelry schools

14. Gucci

Year of Foundation: 1921

Gucci jewelry is the epitome of elegance, luxury and casual at the same time-philosophy. The first jewelry collection was released in the early 70s and in the 90s Tom Ford gave Gucci jewelry line a new life. The master of playing with precious stones and metals, creating a stylish accessories. They are expressive and original, while being loved for restraint and elegance. Iconic collection — minimalistic bamboo, stylish military compound and Safari.

The products felt the daring spirit, but they perfectly complement the elegant images

13. Bucelatti

Year of Foundation: 1919

The brand was founded in Milan, and by the middle of the twentieth century became known in America. In 2001, the company introduced the world jewelry watch. One of the first Bucelatti presented a series of jewelry cases for iPhone and iPad using yellow gold and diamonds. The company also produces silverware. Masterpieces of the brand is recognizable thanks to the distinctive precious lace combination geometry with flowing lines characteristic of the metal texture, reminiscent of expensive fabric.

Decoration Bucelatti recognizable due to the metal texture like the surface of silk, linen or lace

12. DAMIANI

Year of Foundation: 1924

All jewelry brand, founded in Valenza are created manually: from the sketches to the polishing process. Therefore, their creations are admired not just by wealthy people, and members of the Royal families. The Damiani jewelry often flaunt diamonds classic-cut diamonds. Merit is and new technology cut diamond lunette, amplifying the glow. Wedding jewelry Damiani became a good Duo of classic and avant-garde, and flat — ring business card jewelry at home. The price of silver creations of the brand will start from £ 400 and the value of the masterpieces from the exclusive collection of Masterpieces starts from €10 thousand euros.

The company received 18 awards at "Diamonds International Awards"

American jewelry brands

11. Harry Winston

Year of Foundation: 1932

Brand favorite of celebrities for red carpets film festivals. American jeweler Harry Winston created a company beloved by the elite around the world for the exquisite design, glorifying luxury. Recognizable feature — the stones of Marquise-cut, round and pear-shaped diamonds, as if collected into a precious bouquet. In 1940 Winston presented an innovative tack сluster where the diamonds are fixed at different levels, making them Shine. Watch Harry Winston is also an important category in the history of the brand. There are exclusive models with rich decor, and everyday options.

Harry Winston in the jewelry world called the "King of diamonds" for the love of exceptional gems

10. Tiffani & Co

Year established: 1837

Box of turquoise color with the most desirable in the world an engagement ring makes the hearts of girls around the world tremble with delight. Recognizable jewelry with diamond, secured by six prong set appeared in 1886. After the release of the iconic film "Breakfast at Tiffany's" with Audrey Hepburn Tiffani & Co has become even more famous.

The iconic collections of the brand: Tiffani T c outdoor accessories, Return to Tiffani c signature pendant heart and Tiffani Keys in the form of precious keys.

It is the master Tiffani created jewelry for the movie "the Great Gatsby"

Spanish jewelry brands

9. Carrera y Carrera

Year of Foundation: 1885

The history of the company started with family business. Now accessories Carrera y Carrera learn a major scale, eye-catching shades, which is expressed the symbolism of flora and fauna, exotic motifs, celebrating the beauty of soft lines and silhouettes, the interest in Eastern philosophy and sculptural products. Early Las Manos ("Hands") and modern Jardín de Rosas ("the rose Garden") collection, reflecting the brand's spirit. Carrera resemble mini-sculptures worthy of being called high art.

Jewelry brand filled expression and the rich colors

8. Tous

Year of Foundation: 1920

Spanish brand started its story with watch repair, but in 1965 Tous declared itself as a jewelry manufacturer. Brand symbol brand — Mishka — born in 1985. It symbolizes pleasant childhood memories. Jewelry brand characterized by lightness, smooth lines, bright gems, reminiscent of candy canes.

Even in cocktail rings or flashy necklaces no pomp or unnecessary pretentiousness. So they read youthful exuberance and effervescent mood. Business card Tous

Tous love to create a light and cheerful accessories

Swiss jewelry brands

7. Chopard

Year established: 1860

The company initially engaged in production hours. But during the existence of the brand master made collection of almost all possible styles: from retro to ultra-modern motives, from minimalist to outrageous animal images. In the main advantage and benefit of Chopard, which I love for diversity. Happy Diamonds is one of the most successful recent collections, where the glass is free to move gems.

The company has tried in all possible styles

6. de Grisogono

Year established: 1993

The founder of one of the most controversial companies in the jewelry world, Fawaz Gruosi has a passion for colored stones, and especially for black diamonds. Interestingly, Gruosi spent his childhood in Florence, where I received my jewelry education. He was a representative of Harry Winston and Bvlgary, and for 40 years has decided to create their company.

Decoration you recognize on cocktail inspired rings with large gems, the avant-garde forms, pomposity and futuristic ideas. De Grisogono —praises perfectionism and luxury. Accessories — tens of carats clusters gemstones, and lots of color. They are made for women who are "not afraid to take risks, not afraid to wear something that is not one, not afraid to be first."

Fawaz Gruosi is one of the first bet on black diamonds in jewelry

Global brands jewelry in other countries

5. Graff

Year established: 1960

The London-based brand best known treatment unique colored diamonds, custom sizes and unique shades. Therefore, in Graff boutiques around the world presents a truly exclusive jewelry. No wonder Graff — diamonds official supplier to the Royal court of great Britain. Most clearly traced in the collections of floral, vegetable motifs and geometric accents. Master brand nourish a special love for the yellow gems and cocktail rings. Graff diamond watch every time surprise fantastic design and value. For example, a Hallucination is estimated at $55 million.

Products Graff is filled with luxury and panache jewelry thoughts

4. Mikimoto

Year established: 1896

Kokichi Mikimoto first patented a method of growing freshwater pearls in vitro. From that moment began the history of the legendary company, skillfully connecting the elegance of pearls and the bling of diamonds. In the works is used almost exclusively by Mikimoto 18-Karat gold, platinum, diamonds and pearls, and as the basis in the beads silk thread. The assortment features a classic strand of pearls, and a unique collection of copies of Rare & Exquisite, where sometimes gems come to the fore, and the gems only give the product a special charm.

Mikimoto skillfully combines pearls with diamonds and other gemstones

The best in the business brands jewelry set fashion, become a pioneer and every new collection really surprised. The recipe is simple! Thousands of hours of work, years of effort and relentless thirst for improvement has transformed the tiny workshops of the giants in the jewelry industry. We are left to enjoy the masterpieces and learn to distinguish between momentary trinkets from his creations for the ages that you want to transfer by inheritance.

Russian jewelry brands

3. Adamas

Like many other brands, but this company was founded in early 90-ies of XX century.

• Has a patent on a unique gold alloy
• Extensive network of retail stores, with branches in Eastern Europe and China
• Winner of the "product of the Year", "Best jewelry" and other
• The winner of the title of the most popular brand in Runet

2. Sokolov

As Almaz-holding, has more than 25-year history. The brand produces jewelry, watches, children's collections.

• The production of the factory "Diamant"
• Stores in Russia and Europe, including in Switzerland
• The certificate of the international quality standard
• Eastern European leaders in the number of manufactured decorations

1. Moscow jewellery factory

One of the most famous and old jewelry industries, with a history spanning almost a hundred years.

• Own production
• Has a network of branded stores, which number more than 300
• Is certified the international quality standard

Source