Translated from the French as “Chinese-esque” or “in the Chinese taste,” Chinoiserie is an 18th century European aesthetic depicting fanciful Asian and Chinese motifs. Adapted with a distinctive American sensibility in the 1930’s, the style continues to inspire and evolve.

Ward Kelvin grew up in Great Neck, NY, in a house that can only be described as 1970’s Chinoiserie chic. The interior, designed and built by his father, an illustrator, artist and woodworker, was chock full of inspiration. The high-style lattice screened walls and gem color lacquered furniture resonate throughout Mr. Kelvin’s fine jewelry collection, “American Chinoise.”

Having studied industrial design at Pratt Institute, Mr. Kelvin initially pursued a career in the toy industry. Following his first job with Hanna Barbera as a designer of Jetsons, Flintstones and Scooby Doo figurines, his career path segued into an unexpected yet ideal fit.

In 1990 Mr. Kelvin accepted a position with Tiffany & Co., where he honed his skills designing fine china, stemware, flatware, silver fancy goods and fine jewelry. After 10 years with the venerable brand, he went on to conceptualize collections and consult for David Yurman, Estée Lauder, Ralph Lauren and Steuben Glass.

In 2009 Mr. Kelvin’s American Chinoise collection debuted at Bergdorf Goodman. Mr. Kelvin’s fresh interpretation is evident in each 18k gold bamboo stem which meanders and weaves to create perfectly imperfect Chinoiserie nests for each and every gemstone.

“I strive to create jewelry that looks as though it were crafted effortlessly by a most clever and discerning bird.” -- Ward Kelvin

Mr. Kelvin resides in New York City, home to WKI Fine Jewelry, where the collection is hand crafted using reclaimed gold and responsibly sourced gemstones