Born in Asheville, North Carolina, David Webb’s early beginnings were humble, working as an apprentice in his uncle’s silversmith shop and later moving to New York City’s Greenwich Village to repair jewelry. 

He had a unique personality, captivating the attention of wealthy and important patrons of the jewelry repair shop. These relationships poured the foundation of his jewelry business when one wealthy patron, Antoinette Quilleret, backed his fledgling business in 1945. 

His signature style that shaped the standards of modern American jewelry quickly popularized and afforded him the opportunity to buy out Antoinette, establishing David Webb Inc. a mere 3 years later in 1948. 

Webb’s style was marked by metaphorical themes from nature, a vast departure from the popular art deco style that was deeply rooted in the 1950s. His inspirations were Cartier and their Indian-influenced 1920’s style. It was Webb’s visionary spin on these successful styles that birthed his success in the jewelry industry.

Webb’s clients were the glitz and glam of their time. His A-list includes Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Barbra Streisand, Helen Mirren, Jennifer Garner and Beyoncé.

Without further ado, let’s get into some of David Webb’s most iconic pieces!