Art and jewelry historian
Favorite jewelry era: I love the Art Deco period in particular pieces set with original antique artefacts as apprêt. I also like Georgian jewelry of celestial inspiration mixing silver and gold, and every single thing Fabergé created with its magic touch.
Most cherished personal piece of jewelry/horology: My engagement ring, which is not a classic engagement ring, but a diamond-studded wedding band. So, yes I have two wedding bands
If money were no object, which iconic jewel/watch would you like to own: If money were no object, I’d have a vault bigger than the Ali Baba’s cave, but if I have to choose only one it would be the Sunburst Tiara created by Chaumet for Princess Irina Yusupova and the very first Panthère watch by Cartier.
Best book to learn about jewelry: The one that gives the most comprehensive overview on materials and history is Understanding Jewellery by David Bennett and Daniela Mascetti. I often refer to it when researching. But my favorite jewelry book is The Jewels of The Romanovs by Stefano Papi, as I conducted a personal research project on the Romanovs’ jewerly and Papi’s volume has been a trustworthy guide.
Expert’s tip to a jewelry collection beginner: Read a lot, ask a lot of questions and start small.