The Love Affair That Launched A Legacy Of Fine-Jewelry Making

When David Yurman, a sculptor, first met his wife, Sybil, a painter and ceramicist, in 1969, there was an instant meeting of minds. Both born and raised in New York City, the young duo were establishing themselves as creatives in their own right within the artistic hives of Greenwich Village, Soho and Tribeca, unaware that it was their collaboration that would underpin their success.

David created his first ‘Cable’ bracelet for Sybil by twisting 50 feet of wire by hand – a design now internationally recognized and coveted – adorning the ends with shining tourmalines and verdant emeralds. Sybil wore the piece every day, and before long, it became the house’s most iconic jewel. Today, the very same ‘Cable’ design is worn by actor Scarlett Johansson in the brand’s latest advertising campaign, ‘Come Closer’ – an ode to the city that never sleeps, celebrating unity in our post-pandemic world. A native New Yorker, Johansson grew up aspiring to the gleaming, twisted bangles that shone from the pages of her favorite fashion magazines – for many, David Yurman’s ‘Cable’ designs were synonymous with success in the Big Apple.

Since the house was founded in 1980, the talented founding duo has devised a multitude of equally enchanting fine-jewelry collections, perennially inspired by the rich and storied New York City skyline and the synergy of their lifelong partnership. Lexington, named after the home of Art Deco icons like the General Electric and Chrysler Buildings, celebrates the refined silhouettes of 1930s architecture, while Crossover, which is centered around the concept of intertwining lines, symbolizes David and Sybil’s exploration of each other’s creative worlds. The Starburst collection, meanwhile, tells of the pair’s adventures beyond Manhattan – celestial motifs reference fireworks that they have watched illuminate the Parisian night sky.

Now, with so many success stories in their wake, the designers have turned their attention to reimagining many of their most iconic pieces. The Modern Renaissance collection, inspired by the rich heritage of the Renaissance period, has been updated with a series of stackable jewels on a petite scale, perfect for collecting and styling into your own unique combinations. Hand-set diamonds are accented with bright rubies, opulent sapphires and rich emeralds, evoking the richness of Renaissance paintings, with mixed metals and fresh combinations of colored gems bringing a renewed, contemporary sensibility.

The Crossover collection, meanwhile, is reinvigorated with elevated designs featuring diamonds set upon its filaments. Meticulous gem-setting adorns rhythmically weaving lines that scintillate from every angle, creating a ready-made wrist or ring stack for those who prefer their fine-jewelry styling made simple. The Cable Edge collection, which references some of the early metal work made by the Yurmans’ son, Evan, who now serves as president of the house, brings a modern interpretation of the iconic ‘Cable’ design. Rather than featuring multiple wires, one torqued and elegantly fluted silhouette feels modern and androgynous, designed with today’s genderless jewelry wardrobes in mind. After 40 years, it seems ‘Cable’ remains the lodestar of the house, yet it is ever changing, adapting and evolving – just like any great love affair.