Introducing Suzanne Kalan

Discover the history of Suzanne Kalan and her most popular collections

Imagine capturing a firework. Grasping it in your hand and holding it still for a moment to study all its colours, light and radiance up close. Mesmerised by its splendour you might wish you could keep it. Hold it tight and treasure its beauty forever. 

Perhaps this is how Suzanne Kalan felt when she began her career some 35 years ago. Coming from a family of jewellers, Kalan started designing unique pieces for friends before launching her eponymous label in 1988. Based in California, she soon became known for a style that blends modern trends with classical values – creating a magical romance from even the most petite of arrangements.

Kalan is renowned for her use of 18K gold, spectacular diamonds and a kaleidoscope of precious stones. She also practises a unique gem-cutting method – a ‘Vitrine’ technique whereby the top and bottom are cut flat to allow the classic diamond panel behind the stone to shine through. However, perhaps she is most famous for her carefully curated “scattered” aesthetic. An oeuvre of necklaces, bangles, earrings and rings that host a series of asymmetrical baguettes. In either a rainbow of colours or a cluster of diamonds they each form their namesake ‘Fireworks’ look. The result is a cacophony of beauty and an explosion of light – a dreamscape brought to life. 

It’s difficult to spotlight specific pieces from Kalan’s collections, however, the 18K Rose Gold Bold Pastel Sapphire Tennis Bracelet with its cascade of fine colour, the 18K Gold Classic Diamond Bar Pendant featuring a decadent row of diamond baguettes and the 18K Yellow Gold Classic Diamond Eva Stud in its petite and refined beauty make for just a few of the supreme pieces to discover. 

Kalan’s collections have been lauded by the industry and have won many prestigious jewellery accolades. Signature pieces have also been worn by everyone from Rihanna to Jennifer Aniston to Lady Gaga. Today, Kalan is joined in her studio by daughter Patile, who runs production (alongside her diamond-setter father, Paul) and designs the KALAN by Suzanne Kalan collection, making it truly a generational business.

All Suzanne Kalan pieces are designed and created in-house, with each exquisite detail ensuring they become a show-stopping, yet wearable, piece of fine accoutrement. However, perhaps most importantly, each pendant, ring and bangle is designed to serve as a timeless keepsake – a talisman that can capture and honour the most precious moments in our lives.

We spoke with Suzanne about her inspiration, her favourite pieces and why Princess Kate remains a muse.

Where do you draw inspiration from when designing your collections?

I’ve lived in many different parts of the world and lived amongst such varied cultures which has definitely been my biggest influence. Other inspirations come from nature, history, fashion and the theatre. 

Do you have a personal favourite stone?

It has to be the diamond. What’s not to love? They’re timeless! The way a diamond sparkles and the sheer elegance and history that lies beneath each stone is magical. 

Your use of exquisite colour proceeds you, how do you decide which colours will work cohesively in a piece?

I tend to use the same tonal shades in a design. For instance, with the rainbow sapphire collection I’ve used deeper shades of each colourway, then with the pastel sapphire collection I’ve used much lighter variations. When designing with one colour gemstone I quite often like to use pops of white diamonds to accentuate the main colour stone. 

Is fine jewellery something that should be worn everyday or only for special occasions?

Absolutely every day. The very reason I design like I do is to encourage this. Traditionally, baguettes are set and lined up next to each other which can be uninspiring. Baguettes are beautiful stones, but you can’t always see the shape of them with this traditional setting. The way I developed the setting has enabled each little diamond to stand out to create an edgy piece that can be dressed up or dressed down.

If you could dress one person in the world in your jewellery who would it be?

Catherine, Princess of Wales. She is elegant yet incredibly stylish. 

Article written by our content contributor Alissa Thomas.