Editors

Meet the New Couture Design Atelier Through Instagram

EditorsMay 25, 2017

Meet the New Couture Design Atelier Through Instagram

Fourteen budding brands are making their Couture debut this year.

20170525_DA.jpg
Marie Mas is a French fine jewelry brand with motion at the core of its design philosophy. Its “Swinging Stones” collection will be on view at Couture’s Design Atelier in booth DA 20.

Instagram is the platform du jour for discovering new jewelry design talent who are, in turn, equally passionate about spreading their creations through the image-centric app.

So what better way to meet the next set of design stars poised to grace the Design Atelier with their bejeweled presence than through their accounts on the social network?

Below are the 14 designers new to the DA this year (you heard right, there are a whopping 14 of them), as seen exactly how they want to be seen--through their curated Instagram images.

Lito
DA 14

#InfiniteLOVE for Fridays✨⯑⯑⯑⯑#tuEsPartout #litojewelry #LITO

A post shared by LITO JEWELRY (@litojewelry) on Mar 17, 2017 at 11:22am PDT


Lito Karakostanoglou’s namesake brand pays homage to the designer’s native Greece in inventive and unexpected ways.

Think a classic evil eye motif, but sourced from an artist who creates Russian orthodox iconography, or a collection inspired by the shapes of vintage watch faces, but also reflective of the special light that exists in Greece, which has inspired artists for centuries.

Every piece the cerebral designer creates is deeply conceptual yet utterly wearable and flattering on the body. She's shown at Couture previously as part of a showroom's booth but, this year, will make her mark on the Design Atelier. 


Nadine Ghosn
DA 22

⯑⯑⯑ #eyecandy #charms #jewelry #style #stacking #newcollection

A post shared by N∀pINƎ פHOSN (@nadineghosnjewelry) on Apr 28, 2017 at 12:42pm PDT


It’s often said that inspiration can be found anywhere one looks, and new designer Nadine Ghosn takes this adage to heart. An editor favorite, she garnered lots of attention for her hamburger ring.

Now, the cheeky designer has branched into new cuisine: sushi.

Instagram opportunities abound with this tongue-in-cheek line.


Elie Top
DA 16

⯑ Your Heart is full of Diamonds ⯑ #specialorder #newlife #oldcut #diamond #mecaniquescelestes #pastpresent

A post shared by Elie Top (@elietopofficial) on May 20, 2017 at 1:35am PDT


Two years ago, the jewelry designer for French fashion house Lanvin, Elie Top, launched his own fine jewelry collection, which is unlike anything else on the market.

Top’s signature so far has been his work’s kinetic capacities. Rings with several moving parts can be turned and twisted to reveal diamonds and gemstones.

At Couture, Top will introduce buyers to the next phase of his namesake line, which has a Middle Ages, Game of Thrones-esque feel.


Bhansali
DA 19

New Pear Shape 18Kt White Gold Studs in Emerald Green. #bhansalione #bhansalijewelry

A post shared by BHANSALI (@bhansaliofficial) on Apr 21, 2017 at 9:42am PDT


Bhansali is the Beverly Hills-based brand known for its colorful-yet-classic fine jewelry.

Established in recent years by brother and sister duo, Tej and Anar, who are the fourth generation of their family to work in the jewelry industry, today Anar is the sole designer behind the glamorous brand. 

Both GIA graduates, the Bhansalis are fond of setting diamonds into larger colored gemstones, giving the illusion of a metal-less design.


Foundrae
DA 17


Cartier cigar bands from the 1970s and Danish enamel
silverware from the 1950s are two of the referential starting points for Foundrae, the fine jewelry effort from former Rebecca Taylor CEO Beth Bugdaycay.

Foundrae is talismanic and full of symbols representing concepts like protection and karma. Much of the line can be customized with initials and words of the wearer’s choosing.


Yvonne Léon
DA 21

Mini escargot ⯑#available#netaporter#pearls#gold#diamonds#yvonneleon#paris#jewelry

A post shared by leonyvonne (@leonyvonne) on May 4, 2017 at 4:43am PDT


French designer Yvonne Léon’s namesake line is known for its enticing mix of trend and luxury.

An early adopter of innovative earring styles like jackets and climbers, Léon has been embraced by retailers ranging from Net-a-Porter online to Maxfield in Los Angeles.

She’s sure to catch many more retailers’ eyes at the show with her playful-yet-sophisticated jewelry.


Marie Mas
DA 20

#swingingstones #mariemas #hautejoaillerie #jewelrylover #jewelrygram #jewelry #jewellery

A post shared by MARIE_MAS_Jewelry (@marie_mas_jewelry) on Feb 19, 2017 at 12:27pm PST


Marie Mas is a new fine jewelry venture from a Dior alum.

The French brand employs pastel-colored gemstones like topaz and amethyst in its sweet “Swinging Stones” collection.

Gems swivel and move as in a Ferris wheel or a wave. Expect buzz around this brand, which only launched this year.


Imogen Belfield
DA 18

Sending this award winning beauty on its winding way to @harveynichols ⯑⯑⯑

A post shared by Imogen Belfield (@imogenbelfield) on Mar 10, 2017 at 4:49am PST


Imogen Belfield has graduated from Stephen Webster’s Rock Vault and entered the new class of the Design Atelier.

Her booth will be full of her bold, tactile designs that feel as if they were spewed from a volcano.

Primitive, earthy and utilizing a large amount of gold, exploring Belfield’s designs is like sifting through found treasure.


Jacqueline Cullen
DA 23


Fellow former Rock Vaulter and DA newcomer Jacqueline Cullen also is known for possessing a strong design signature.

For Cullen, that signature is geometric, architectural forms rendered in Whitby jet, accented with a touch of yellow gold and black diamonds for a subtle sparkle.

Luckily for Cullen, black never goes out of style.


Tura Sugden
DA 26


San Francisco-based Tura Sugden’s aesthetic feels very much like a product of her environment.

Her jewelry focuses on under-the-radar elements like ethically sourced champagne diamonds or diamond slices, all set in recycled metals. 

Sugden’s natural aesthetic is ideal for a modern, eco-conscious bride.


Taru Jewelry
DA 24


Sefik Kabas has a background ideal for jewelry-making.

Born into a jewelry design family in Istanbul, Kabas studied sculpture and glass-blowing in the United States and Europe. He went on to design furniture and interiors before launching Taru Jewelry.

Taru consists of depictions of animals readily aligned with symbols, such as a ram symbolizing strength or an owl signifying wisdom. The bold, medieval-feeling line would suit both men and women.


Doryn Wallach
DA 25

Two of my favorites! If you're going to do all this on your hand, I always say to keep it simple on the wrist.

A post shared by D O R Y N W A L L A C H (@dorynwallachjewelry) on May 15, 2017 at 6:32pm PDT


New York-based designer Doryn Wallach has a serious thing for Art Deco. Her work reflects the period with its strong, repeating shapes and glamorous feel.

Wallach’s Instagram reveals many of her Deco influences found around New York City.


Loren Nicole
DA 27

Get your summer hoops from us next week @by_couture #LorenNicoleFineJewelry #ModernArchaeology #SummerReady

A post shared by L O R E N N I C O L E (@loren.nicole.finejewelry) on May 28, 2017 at 6:55am PDT


Launched last year, Loren Nicole’s eponymous fine jewelry line is influenced by the designer’s background as a textile conservator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and American Museum of Natural History in New York.

She went on to learn ancient goldsmithing techniques and now creates all of her jewelry by hand in her studio in Venice, California.

Look to Loren Nicole for meticulously executed filigree work that could have been found in one of the museums where the designer sought inspiration.


Marcia Budet
DA 28

Rosé the night away. #ElegantlyBold

A post shared by Marcia Budet | #ElegantlyBold® (@marciabudet) on May 9, 2017 at 7:30pm PDT


#ElegantlyBold is the hashtag Marcia Budet uses to brand her work on Instagram.

Budet is an architect turned jewelry designer. Her line is impactful and slightly off-kilter, with abstract shapes turned every which way.

Budet favors gemstones cut in an asymmetrical style, particularly super-saturated amethysts, lemon quartz and citrine.
Ashley Davisis the senior editor, fashion at National Jeweler, covering all things related to design, style and trends.

The Latest

Boucheron Human Being Collection Tattoo Necklace
CollectionsJul 09, 2026
Boucheron’s New High Jewelry Collection Is an Ode to the Human Touch

“Human Being” highlights the similarities and differences between us through five sets of jewelry that celebrate fine craftsmanship.

Baume & Mercier watch
WatchesJul 09, 2026
Damiani Group Finalizes Acquisition of Baume & Mercier

Richemont will continue to provide operational services for the watch brand for a period while the group prepares to integrate it.

Joopiter Logo
AuctionsJul 09, 2026
Pharrell Williams’ Joopiter Hires Former Bonhams Exec to Head New Watch Division

Nate Borgelt will lead the digital auction house and content platform’s new division as head of watches.

Brought-To-By-Article-Top-Image.jpg
Brought to you by
Wedding Band Trends 2026: Personalization Takes Center Stage

Colored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.

Enoch Michael
Events & AwardsJul 09, 2026
Halstead Names 2026 Grant Winner

Enoch Platero, founder and designer behind Enoch Michael, is the first Native American jeweler to win the award.

Weekly QuizJul 01, 2026
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
Karen Fox and Jenna Siegel
Events & AwardsJul 09, 2026
AGS, GIA Name 2026 Beatrice Shipley Scholarship Winner

AGS also announced the recipient of its “Women in Leadership” scholarship.

Kendra Scott
MajorsJul 08, 2026
Kendra Scott Joins ‘Shark Tank’ As Permanent Investor

The founder of the billion-dollar jewelry and lifestyle brand will debut as a full-time “Shark” on the upcoming season of the show.

DCA-NJ-article-1872x1052-060826.jpg
Brought to you by
Building the Future of Jewelry Retail: DCA Expands Education, Leadership Development, and Workforce Solutions

DCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.

Hands crossed with rings on
SurveysJul 08, 2026
Signet Jewelers Falls 5 Spots on NRF’s ‘Top 100’ Retailers List

Plus, why retailers should be ready to adjust as the U.S. population may decline this year for the first time since the Great Depression.

René Lalique “Woman Dragonfly With Open Wings” pendant
CrimeJul 08, 2026
Here’s What Thieves Stole From the Lalique Museum

René Lalique’s “Woman Dragonfly With Open Wings” pendant, the first piece the museum acquired, was one of the jewels taken.

Arien Gessner and Moss Makhoulian
MajorsJul 08, 2026
Richline Group Promotes 2 Execs

Arien Gessner and Moss Makhoulian have been elevated into newly created roles.

The Retail Smiths partner and National Jeweler columnist Peter Smith
ColumnistsJul 07, 2026
Peter Smith: Diamond Branding and the Origin Paradox

A podcast prompted Smith to share his views on where origin fits into the natural diamond story and the viability of branded diamonds.

Jewelers of America Impact Initiative Recipients 2026
Events & AwardsJul 07, 2026
JA Announces 2026 Impact Initiative Recipients

The association selected eight recipients for the funding program, which is in its second year.

Zahn Z In Rubies We Clicked
TrendsJul 07, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: Ruby, White and Blue

Whether celebrating America’s 250th birthday or the USA’s World Cup run, July birthstone jewelry can double as a patriotic accessory.

Police van outside of Musée Lalique
CrimeJul 07, 2026
Thieves Steal Millions in Jewels From France’s Musée Lalique

Around 20 pieces of jewelry were stolen from the museum dedicated to French jeweler and glassmaker René Lalique.

Robinson Pelham Summer of ’96 Campaign
CollectionsJul 07, 2026
Robinson Pelham Is Partying Like It’s 1996

The “Summer of ’96” campaign and collection celebrate the year the brand was founded for its 30th anniversary.

Sean Gilbertson
SourcingJul 06, 2026
Gemfields CEO Sean Gilbertson Steps Down

After eight years, Gilbertson is leaving his post at the mining company, which is currently facing a slew of operational challenges.

Bachendorf’s New Dallas Location Exterior Rendering
IndependentsJul 06, 2026
Bachendorf’s To Open Fifth Store In Dallas

The new location is set to open this winter, featuring the retailer’s first rotating jewelry designer residency.

Jung Kook for Graff
MajorsJul 06, 2026
Graff Names BTS Star Jung Kook as New Ambassador

The pop artist appears in the latest campaign for the “Laurence Graff Signature” collection.

Pandora pearl jewelry campaign imagery
CollectionsJul 06, 2026
Pandora’s New Baroque Pearl Collection Is a Whimsical ‘Wonder’

One-of-a-kind pearls take the shape of ice cream cones, frogs, submarines, and other imaginative charms.

London Diamond Bourse President Charlotte Rose
SourcingJul 02, 2026
London Diamond Bourse Elects First Female President

Charlotte Rose said her election is “a sign that this is an industry capable of change.”

Bracelets_1872_1052.jpg
Supplier BulletinJul 02, 2026
Elevating Retail Showcases with Today's Necklace & Bracelet Trends

Sponsored by Rio Grande Jewelry Supply

Oscar Heyman Flag Brooch
TrendsJul 02, 2026
Oscar Heyman’s Flag Brooch Celebrates America

The American jewelry house, founded by Latvian immigrants, has been creating American flag brooches since 1917.

D. Geller & Son store mural
IndependentsJul 02, 2026
D. Geller & Son Partners with KSU Art Students on Store Mural

The artwork celebrates the Atlanta jeweler’s legacy and symbolizes its commitment to supporting local artists and its community.

Hand taking jewelry out of jewelry box
Events & AwardsJul 02, 2026
Stratus Estate Buyers Offers Jewelers Turnkey Buying Events

Its team can evaluate jewelry and watches, as well as luxury handbags, artwork, and collectibles.

Hand holding a gas pump
SurveysJul 01, 2026
Consumer Confidence Ticks Up in June

Falling oil prices were a factor in the slight month-over-month improvement.

Rio Grande Millgrain Wedding band and Round Diamond Engagement Ring
CollectionsJul 01, 2026
Rio Grande Launches First Finished Bridal Collection

The new offering comprises more than 120 bridal and engagement ring styles with natural and lab-grown diamonds.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy