Mixing innovative designs with precise techniques, Glenn Spiro creates dazzling pieces for his clients.
Glenn Spiro, based in a sumptuous London showroom that once belonged to the dressmaker to the queen, loves to create bold and beautiful pieces of gem-set jewelry that test the boundaries of craftsmanship. Spiro has an exquisite collection of rare diamonds and gemstones that he sets into his designs in combination with unusual materials to exude a distinctive opulence and personality. He recently sold one of the world’s largest red diamonds, after recutting and repolishing it, for just under $20 million.
“I have a brilliant workshop in Geneva with a dedicated focus on craftsmanship,” Spiro says in his elegant, high-ceilinged Mayfair office in the heart of London’s high-jewelry district. The showroom — which has photos of Norman Hartnell, dressmaker to Queen Elizabeth II from the 1950s to the 1970s — showcases a variety of Spiro’s jewelry designs, trading under his first initial, G.
Route to the top
Spiro’s luxurious surroundings are a long way from his modest beginnings. Having started off as an “odd job” person and teaboy, he took his first steps in the industry with an apprenticeship at English Art Works, Cartier’s workshop. From there, he progressed to become a master jeweler. Once he had learned his craft, he felt the drive to set up on his own.
“After a while, I found it boring making pieces in standard, traditional ways: I ended up looking carefully at a stone in my hand rather than in tweezers — that way, you can really see into a stone, rather than just analyze it. Some gems are so extraordinarily pretty.”
Spiro’s aestheticism has driven his ambition. He now does bespoke work for dozens of private clients around the world. “I love pretty things — whether it be art or furniture or jewelry,” he says.
Pride in the job
Spiro’s inspiration and drive comes from the fulfillment he receives from doing work that is appreciated by his clients, whom he mainly meets by appointment in his showroom. “It’s all down to my own satisfaction that the piece looks great when it’s all done,” he says.
Spiro adds his most iconic creations include a one-of-a-kind titanium ring with a yellow diamond, made over 20 years ago, and a recently completed large emerald necklace with colored titanium.
Among other designers he admires, James de Givenchy of luxury jeweler Taffin stands out.
Spiro’s G jewelry will be on show to visitors at PAD London from September 30 to October 6.
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