What makes a piece of jewelry truly exceptional? Is it the artistry, the craftsmanship, or the story behind it? In 2024, it’s definitely a few exclusive jewelry designers who are captivating the industry with their unique visions and commitment to quality.
These talented designers have set a new standard for jewelry buyers, offering one-of-a-kind creations that resonate with personal significance and style. From stunning engagement rings to intricate bespoke pieces, the top designers of this year are setting new standards in craftsmanship and innovation.
Let’s discover more about these top 10 exclusive jewelry designers of 2024 and their remarkable excellence and innovation.
1. Barkev Meserlian
Barkev Meserlian, founder of Barkev’s, has been a trailblazer in the jewelry industry for over 40 years. His journey began in 1981 with a passion for craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for traditional techniques, which he expertly blends with modern innovations. Known for his unique, one-of-a-kind designs, Barkev creates jewelry that tells a personal story, resonating with both traditional and contemporary customers. His signature collections, such as the vintage-inspired BD-7932LBD engagement ring, showcase his ability to fuse nature-inspired elements with timeless elegance. Barkev’s dedication to staying ahead of trends while maintaining classical integrity has propelled Barkev’s from a B2B business to a thriving ecommerce brand, offering exquisite custom-made engagement rings and fine jewelry. With new collections on the horizon, including tennis bracelets with lab-grown diamonds and blue sapphires, Barkev’s continues to set the standard for exclusive, high-end jewelry.
2. Susan Oliver Heard
Susan Oliver Heard, the visionary behind Heard Gallery, has spent over 30 years crafting jewelry inspired by her deep love for nature and wildlife. With a keen eye for stones and colors, she channels her passion for photography and her fascination with creatures like seahorses, crocodiles, and octopuses into her intricate designs. Each piece tells a story, capturing the essence of the animals she admires. Known for her functional artistry, Susan’s designs not only honor the natural world but are also thoughtfully created to wear beautifully. Her accolades include winning the prestigious Jewelers of America CASE Award in 2024 and placing in the Jewelers for Children competition in 2004. With exhibitions at notable events like ZONA MACO in Mexico City, Round Top, TX, and Telluride, CO, her work continues to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Susan’s jewelry is a testament to her dedication to creativity, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to nature.
3. Kegan Fisher
Kegan Fisher, co-founder of Frank Darling, has made a mark in the jewelry industry by focusing on personalized, modern engagement rings crafted from lab and natural diamonds. Launched in 2019 with her husband Jeff, Frank Darling started from their apartment and grew into a brand known for its intimate, client-centered design process. With a unique approach to customization, Kegan and her team, led by Director of Design Diego Moncada, continually push boundaries, blending modern, sculptural aesthetics with wearability. Frank Darling’s commitment to quality and customer experience has resulted in over 10,000 custom-designed engagement rings, earning them a reputation for excellence and innovation.
4. Lana Bramlette
Lana Bramlette, founder of LANA, revolutionized the fine jewelry market in 2002 with her vision for stylish, self-purchasing women. Dubbed “The Queen of Hoops,” Lana’s designs are iconic for their bold simplicity, crafted in gleaming 14K gold and diamonds. Her pieces exude an effortless allure meant for day-to-night wear, from statement hoops to delicate necklaces, rings, and anklets that embody confidence and sophistication. LANA’s celebrity clientele includes Beyoncé, Madonna, and Jennifer Lopez, and her brand continues to earn accolades in Vogue, Forbes, and WWD. With the recent opening of her flagship store in Winnetka and new collections expanding into men’s and wedding jewelry, Lana is setting new standards for the modern luxury woman. This 22-year-old brand, sold at top retailers like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, remains as dynamic and boundary-pushing as its founder.
5. Mara Opperman
Mara Opperman, co-founder of Louped, has revolutionized the diamond jewelry industry by offering a peer-to-peer marketplace for buying and selling high-end pieces, especially engagement rings. Louped began with a deeply personal story when her brother, Josh Opperman, faced heartbreak and discovered how difficult it was to sell an engagement ring at fair value. Today, Louped connects sellers and buyers, offering unique, authenticated diamond jewelry while promoting sustainability by recycling existing diamonds. With pieces selling at 50% to 80% below retail, Louped provides an alternative to traditional retail markups and the environmental costs of new diamond mining. The platform, which has expanded to include all types of fine jewelry, has garnered media attention and trust from buyers. Mara’s dedication to creating a resilient, community-driven marketplace is reflected in Louped’s continued success, offering customers quality, affordability, and a fresh start.
6. Eddie Borgo
Eddie Borgo is redefining the art of modern jewelry through a distinctive fusion of geometric classicism and architectural influences. Inspired by the timeless appeal of modern art, architecture, and sculpture, Borgo’s designs explore symbolism and adornment with an avant-garde approach that challenges traditional notions of luxury. Since launching his namesake collection in 2008, Borgo has become a sought-after collaborator for iconic brands like Burberry, Max Mara, and Tiffany & Co., with whom he created the prestigious Tiffany x Eddie Borgo Legacy Collection. Honored with awards like the CFDA Swarovski Award for Innovation in Accessory Design and the Vogue/Tiffany Development Grant, Borgo’s work has established him as a visionary in the jewelry industry. Balancing his time between New York and Los Angeles, Borgo continues to influence the next generation through advisory roles and mentorship, making him a prominent figure in contemporary jewelry design.
7. Alla Weinberg
Alla Weinberg, the visionary behind Icon Line Design, has carved a niche in jewelry by transforming vintage designer buttons into striking, sustainable earrings. Since its launch in 2021, Icon Line Design has championed eco-conscious fashion and personal expression, encouraging women to embrace styles that’s both sophisticated and unique. Born from Alla’s passion for vintage fashion, her signature designs quickly gained traction amid the rise of virtual meetings, offering a subtle touch of elegance for online presence. With notable milestones like appearances at the Emmys and over 2,500 pieces sold this year, Icon Line Design’s reputation for quality and artistry continues to grow. This holiday season, Weinberg will introduce a limited-edition collection of vintage-button earrings at the DowntownDC Holiday Market, capturing the spirit of the season with Icon Line Design’s distinctive charm.
8. Jenna Blake
Jenna Blake, founder of Jenna Blake Jewelry, has redefined modern luxury with her signature vintage-inspired pieces. Known for her “more is more” philosophy, Jenna expertly blends bold colors, intricate textures, and striking shapes, creating jewelry meant to be layered and cherished. Drawing from her love of art deco, mid-century, and French ‘40s design, her work is a modern twist on classic elegance. Jenna’s pieces reflect her passion for collecting art and unique vintage jewelry, which influences her brand’s timeless, heirloom-quality style. Based in Los Angeles, she has amassed a dedicated clientele who admire her craftsmanship and eye for vibrant, confident designs that transition effortlessly from casual to formal. Jenna Blake Jewelry, featured in top fashion magazines, continues to captivate those seeking expressive, wearable art that pays homage to the past while celebrating individuality.
9. Jeffrey D. McPherson
Jeffrey D. McPherson, founder of McPherson & Co. Premier Jewelers, has established his brand as a luxury destination in Georgia and the first Black-owned jewelry company in West Georgia and Carroll County. Inspired by his grandmother’s entrepreneurial spirit and his clients’ trust, Jeffrey has dedicated over a decade to crafting bespoke, one-of-a-kind diamond pieces. Guided by the motto “A Step Above Others,” McPherson combines unmatched craftsmanship with personal service, working by appointment to create custom designs that are as unique as his clients. The celebrated “Francé-Bellá Collection,” named after his great-grandmother and daughter, represents his commitment to quality and legacy. Recognized by Forbes, 40 Under 40, Readers Choice Jeweler Of Year & Shoutout Bespoke Designer of Year And winner of numerous awards, McPherson will expand his business into East Alabama in 2025, introducing the new “Magnificent Masterpieces” line and a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
10. Yuliana Minor
Yuliana Minor, the visionary behind YSM Designs, began her journey into jewelry design in 2010, blending vintage-inspired artistry with a contemporary flair. Inspired by art deco and regency-era elegance, Yuliana creates versatile pieces that add a touch of confidence and sparkle to any outfit, from everyday wear to statement-making formal attire. Her collections are known for their rich, high-quality crystals, thoughtful details, and boutique packaging, creating a luxurious experience for her customers. Yuliana’s unique approach has earned her notable clients, including a former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader who wore her designs at a destination wedding in Hawaii. Her highly anticipated jewelry advent calendar—a curated set of 12 exclusive pieces—is a seasonal highlight that captures her creativity and dedication. Cherished in life’s memorable moments, YSM Designs has become synonymous with timeless elegance and a personalized touch.