WORDS BY ASHLEIGH GRIBBON
An ever-expanding genre in the luxury jewelry space, demi-fine jewelry hits the sweet spot between fine and fashion. Modern, accessible and often trend-led, many of the world’s most exclusive brands are beginning to showcase demi-fine collections fit for more casual styling alongside their fine jewelry offerings. It’s also becoming increasingly relevant for our WFH lifestyles, with the rise of Zoom and Google Meet creating the need for on-screen accessorizing.
What defines a piece as demi-fine?
On FARFETCH, our demi-fine collection is made up of pieces that are crafted in pure 9kt, 10kt and 14kt gold — the softer coloring of which, in comparison to 18kt and 24kt, flatters most skin tones — and can feature semi-precious stones and diamonds. It’s interesting to note that demi-fine pieces are also often the most innovative in adorning the body — from anklets and ear cuffs to body chains and clip details. Get to know the new wave of jewelers creating demi-fine pieces fit for modern-day dressing.
Jewelry with a conscience: WWAKE
Designed using recycled gold and diamonds, as well as responsibly sourced stones from around the world, WWAKE’s demi-fine offering is as ethically focused as it is cool and contemporary. While slim, delicate designs form the backbone of the collection — think stackable rings and simplistic pendant-detailed chains — other key highlights include artful baguette-diamond signet rings and statement stone-encrusted earrings. ‘It’s my responsibility as a designer to source my materials as responsibly as I can,’ explains WWAKE founder, Wing Yau, ‘and ensure that my stones don't contribute to the harm of workers and the environment during the production process. Our diamonds are either reclaimed or antique, and we also use Canadian diamonds that are 100% traceable to the source. We are proud to say we use transparent supply chains.’
WWAKE 14kt yellow gold Nestled ring | WWAKE 14kt yellow gold gemstone chain earrings | WWAKE 14kt gold baguette signet ring | WWAKE Orb opal diamond earrings
A new take on classic: Astley Clarke
Astley Clarke is a celebrated London-based jeweler whose use of shape, innovation and color — a signature triple threat that she’s translated from her fine collections into the demi-fine category — speaks to a new generation of women looking for interesting jewelry for every day. It’s also worth noting that the MBE-awarded jeweler is a go-to for a new take on classic femininity, with reimagined pavé-diamond disc earrings, pendants and rings. ‘This season, Clarke’s demi-fine offering is artful, modern and underpinned with the sense of fun her eponymous brand is famed for,’ notes FARFETCH’s head of jewelry, Min Lee. ‘A personal standout design is an exclusive 14kt gold Evil Eye ring that comes encrusted with diamonds and a striking blue sapphire, available to shop only on FARFETCH.’
Astley Clarke 14kt yellow gold Evil Eye ring | Astley Clarke 14kt yellow gold Interstellar necklace | Astley Clarke 14kt yellow gold diamond Interstellar hoops | Astley Clarke Flash Interstellar ring
Shop Astley Clarke’s demi-fine edit
Hand-crafted talismans: Pascale Monvoisin
Born in Paris, Pascale Monvoisin took her eponymous jewelry brand on an unexpected move to the Normandy countryside just before the pandemic saw the French capital go into lockdown. It was a transition that only heightened her unique and free-spirited aesthetic, which is clear to see in her signature hand-crafted talismans. ‘Pascale Monvoisin embraces imperfections with her sought-after demi-fine designs,’ says Lee of the brand’s hammered-gold creations, which are finished in 9kt and 14kt gold. ‘Each piece is lovingly made by hand, and features her fusion of hand-picked precious stones and shells — which, this season, are detailed with diamond accents and touches of turquoise. These are artful yet wearable pieces, perfect for anyday styling.’
Pascale Monvoisin 9kt yellow gold diamond Gaïa ring | Pascale Monvoisin 9kt yellow and rose gold diamond Izia necklace | Pascale Monvoisin 9kt yellow gold diamond Varda Nº2 necklace | Pascale Monvoisin 9kt yellow gold diamond Cauri earring
Shop Pascale Monvoisin’s demi-fine edit
Any-occasion classics: Dana Rebecca Designs
For Dana Gordon, the third-generation jeweler behind Dana Rebecca Designs, modernizing jewelry classics through a fresh lens is a signature. Her namesake label’s unique creations are inspired by the women central to Gordon’s life — note the naming of each piece — and are born from the idea that luxury jewelry pieces should be made for all occasions, instead of reserved for special events. Little details like adjustable chains and protective bezel settings mean everything is ideal for day-to-day wear. ‘From sculpted 14kt rose-gold rings to simplistic yet wholly modern diamond-trimmed pendants, Dana Gordon understands how the modern woman wants to wear jewelry,’ says Lee. ‘For those new to Dana Rebecca Designs’ demi-fine offering, the collection’s diamond huggie earrings, unique engagement rings and initial necklaces are a great place to start.’