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.
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