This article first appeared in the JNA January/ February 2023 issue.

Platinum is central to the heritage and vision of Oscar Heyman, the storied luxury jewellery house that produces magnificent creations featuring the finest of gemstones.

Founder Oscar Heyman and his brothers learned their jewellery-making skills and had an apprenticeship with Fabergé in the 1900s when major brands widely used platinum in their gem-set jewellery pieces and Art Deco designs due to its beauty, strength and quality. Their platinum expertise formed the foundation of the company when it launched in 1912 as a manufacturer for leading luxury jewellery names, establishing a reputation as “the jeweller’s jeweller,” before evolving into an equally prestigious independent brand.

Platinum figured in several Oscar Heyman milestones over the years such as its classic floral designs and a necklace for the legendary Taylor-Burton Diamond and, to this day, remains an integral part of the brand’s jewellery aesthetic.

According to chairman Tom Heyman, platinum enables the brand to be innovative and explore ways to bend and twist the metal to inlay gemstones and produce new spectacular designs. Its malleability, stability and strength allow the production of sophisticated jewellery. Several pieces can be soldered together while thin wirework in necklaces and bracelets result in exquisite creations.

“Platinum is really central to who we are. It is the appropriate metal in most cases for most stones and for most pieces of jewellery. We can confidently set a 30- to 40-carat D-colour flawless diamond as a pendant in a platinum setting without any concerns. Platinum gives a sense of security and confidence that the jewellery piece will be handed down from generation to generation,” he explained. “In almost all situations, we do not even discuss which metal to use for a new design. It is by default platinum.” Through the years, the pioneers in the platinum industry continually explore new technologies and manufacturing methods such as casting, 3D printing and powder additive technology to stretch the boundaries of platinum jewellery. Platinum Guild International (PGI) remains steadfast in its mission to support trade innovation and help platinum jewellery design reach new heights.