The AZ of Jewelry: J is for... JAR

There are few fine jewelers more elusive than Joel Arthur Rosenthal, otherwise known by the signature on his creations: JAR Famous for being inaccessible and entirely mysterious, Rosenthal never advertises his jewels, rarely invites anyone to view them, carefully chooses potential buyers, and reportedly produces just 70 pieces per year from his Switzerland and France-based ateliers Such secrecy has resulted in a voracious cult following, with collectors taking note when JAR signed pieces are sold at auction.

Prior to becoming the legendary JAR, Rosenthal was born in the Bronx, New York, and graduated with a degree in art history from Harvard University in 1966 Inspired by his needlepoint past, many JAR jewels are dusted with diamonds and gemstones in stitch-like pavé arrangements that create an almost uninterrupted surface of colour JAR pieces are often recognisable for their nature inspirations, with subtle hints of Art Nouveau styling and more complex spirals, spheres and geometries.

The sheer collectability of JAR creations makes Rosenthal one of the most influential living jewelers in the world In 2013, Manhattan's Metropolitan Museum of Art showcased more than 400 JAR treasures in a show titled, 'Jewels by JAR', allowing international fans the rare opportunity to see them face-to-face. . Source