David Webb

American designer and jewelry manufacturer (1925-1975). Born in North Carolina, he studies drawing and the manufacture of jewelry in New York, from the age of 16. He learns the basics of the work of precious metals in the laboratory of one of his uncles. In 1945, at 20, he opens with an associate, Nina Silberstein, the David Webb Inc. Boutique, at 47th Street of Manhattan. They settle at a more prestigious location, 6 West 57th Street, at the beginning of the 50s. His jewels are also sold by Bergdorf Goodman and Bonwit Teller. He has, among his clientele, Jacqueline Kennedy, who wears his models and places orders for official gifts. Many of his creations draw their inspiration from references to the Antiquity or to exotic countries. It would be difficult to find an animal that he has not reproduced under the form of pendant, of a clip, of a ring or of earrings.  He appreciates the fine stones and the vibrant colours of the jade, of the coral, of the lapis lazuli and other hard stones.