The romance and mystery of the past and the elegant restraint of the present distinguish the work of jewelry designer Temple St. Clair. Rooted in the mystery and the romance of the past, Temple’s pieces feature an elegant restraint, a clean modern line, and a sensitivity to color that are indisputably contemporary — yet utterly timeless. I had lunch with a girlfriend who was wearing a delicate gold chain with a gold pendant made of sparking sapphires. Without asking, I knew it was Temple St. Clair. Her signature style is unmistakable as is the workmanship of her jewels.
In Temple’s colorful Southern childhood, the many vivid storytellers in her family gave her an early appetite for literature and art. Born in Virginia, Temple studied art and literature of the classical world and the Italian Renaissance at Smith College and in Florence, Italy, where she lived for many years.
Having spent over a decade living and studying in Europe, Temple draws her inspiration and influence from the Mediterranean basin. Temple has collaborated with master artisans in Florence for the past twenty years. During that time, with her designs, she has taken the artisans back in pursuit of traditional techniques and the old world quality seldom seen in modern jewelry.
Why jewelry? “Since ancient times, personal ornamentation has signified many things and told many stories,” Temple explains. “Beauty, of course, nobility, honor, desire, power, taste and love. Jewelry reverberates with meaning and allusion. I love to read a woman by how she chooses to adorn herself—whether she is a Bronzino Medici, a movie star in Vogue or a modern American you see on the street.”
Temple insists on the finest quality of craftsmanship and materials made by Italian artisans who have been working in Florence for generations. She adds new collections each year though they always include the Classics: fabricated in 18-karat gold or platinum and featuring “precious” semi-precious stones, diamonds, and pearls.
Temple’s work is currently featured by a variety of prominent retailers including guild jewelry and high-end specialty stores across the country. Check Temple's website for complete list of retailers.
I super duper love temple st.clair!!!! it's so pretty!
Thank you for sharing, the pieces are breathtaking. I love the little signature temple charms.
These are truly exceptional items. Will always visit their website regularly to check on new collection.