An Overview of the Life and Legacy of Harry Winston, the King of Diamonds. Contemporary Influences

Abstract

Stone can be considered as a piece of resistance for jewelry, not just an accessory fixed on a noble metal. This current study reflects the biography and the activity of Harry Winson – one of the most important american diamond collectors and specialists of 20th century. Winston House, during several decades, presents one of the most impressive natural stones, rarely found in sizes, unique properties, such as President Vargas’ diamond, Hope, the sapphire of Queen Maria of Romania and so on, creations of clothing jewelry and watches produced in history for royal houses (Duchess Windsor, Queen Elizabeth's II, Queen Maria of Romania...) and also for cinema stars (Katharine Hepburn, thus, Winston is a remarkable personality. Refurbishing jewelry by reshaping into contemporary clothing ornamental items. His authority and professionalism were so imposing, that it was impossible for him not to be a source of influence and inspiration in contemporary art, such as jewelry making, painting, sculpture from the territory of Bessarabia and the whole world. The goal of this study was to shortly reflect the most representative stones and well-known jewelry from Winston’s House, and their impact in the jewelry making field and fashion, which lasted in time.