Frequently Asked Questions
David Webb's signature style in jewelry design is marked by its bold, sculptural forms and vivid details, merging artistic flair with meticulous craftsmanship. Renowned for animal motifs, his pieces often depict creatures like frogs and tigers, crafted with vibrant enamel and set with large gemstones.
Enamel work is a signature feature, applied over gold to create glossy, textured finishes in colors like blue and green. His designs also incorporate bold, colorful gemstones such as rubies and emeralds, often presented in cabochon cuts to highlight their natural beauty.
Influences of Art Deco are evident in the geometric shapes and symmetrical patterns, enriched by detailed gold work that includes hammered and textured finishes, embodying a modern yet timeless elegance.
David Webb Jewelry, founded in 1948 by the self-taught jeweler David Webb in New York City, quickly became known for its bold, distinctive designs featuring vibrant enamel, large gemstones, and intricate gold work. Drawing inspiration from animal motifs, ancient civilizations, and Art Deco, Webb’s creations gained favor with celebrities and socialites, including Jacqueline Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor.
After Webb's death in 1975, the brand continued under his business partner, Nina Silberstein, preserving his legacy of luxury and flamboyant style. Today, David Webb Jewelry remains highly coveted for its artistic craftsmanship and unique aesthetic.
We guarantee the authenticity of all our David Webb jewelry, ensuring that each piece meets rigorous standards for quality and authenticity. For your peace of mind, there are a few easy ways you can also authenticate David Webb jewelry:
Look for the "David Webb" hallmark and metal purity stamps like "18K" or "Plat" on each piece, which are indicators of authenticity. Examine the quality of craftsmanship, particularly the enamel work and gemstone settings, which should reflect the brand’s high standards. Familiarize yourself with David Webb’s distinctive design elements, such as bold animal motifs and Art Deco influences. Additionally, any accompanying documentation like certificates of authenticity or receipts can further verify a piece’s legitimacy. For added assurance, consider a professional appraisal to confirm its authenticity based on detailed examination.
We guarantee the authenticity of all our David Webb jewelry, ensuring that each piece meets rigorous standards for quality and authenticity.
Appraisers and experts use the following steps to identify genuine David Webb pieces and ensure their authenticity:
- Check the Hallmarks: Genuine David Webb jewelry will have specific hallmarks, including "David Webb" along with marks for metal purity such as "18K" or "Plat" for platinum. These are usually stamped on a discreet part of the jewelry, such as the inside of a ring or on the back of a pendant.
- Examine Craftsmanship: David Webb is known for exceptional craftsmanship. The enamel work should be flawless and uniform, and the settings of gemstones should be secure and precise. We look for the intricate details and high-quality finish that Webb’s pieces are renowned for.
- Recognize Signature Designs: David Webb jewelry features characteristic styles unique to his work. His pieces often feature bold, animal motifs, substantial use of gold, and dramatic settings of large gemstones. The use of vibrant enamel in distinct colors and patterns is also a signature element.
- Verify with Documentation: If available, original documentation such as purchase receipts or certificates of authenticity can confirm the authenticity of the piece.
- Consult an Expert: For valuable pieces or when in doubt, consulting with a jewelry expert or an appraiser who specializes in high-end jewelry can provide a professional verification of a David Webb piece.
The difference between David Webb's vintage and modern jewelry collections primarily lies in the era of production, but both maintain the brand's distinctive aesthetic traits.
Vintage pieces, created during Webb's lifetime until 1975, often exhibit mid-20th-century influences, with heavy use of yellow gold, enamel, and cultural motifs inspired by Art Deco and global art, characterized by substantial forms and prominent animal designs.
Modern collections, while maintaining these signature themes like animal motifs and the extensive use of enamel and gemstones, incorporate contemporary trends and advanced manufacturing techniques, offering designs that might appeal to a broader audience and integrate modern market preferences.
Both collections uphold the high-quality craftsmanship synonymous with David Webb, with modern pieces occasionally utilizing newer technologies for enhanced precision.
To care for and maintain your David Webb jewelry, regularly clean it with a soft, dry cloth and use a gentle solution of mild soap and lukewarm water for deeper cleaning, especially for pieces with enamel and gemstones, using a soft brush. Store each piece separately in a lined jewelry box or individual soft pouches to avoid scratches and protect from humidity and heat. Be cautious during wear to avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or physical impacts that could damage enamel or loosen gemstones.
Additionally, schedule periodic professional inspections and cleanings to ensure any potential issues, such as worn settings or loose stones, are addressed promptly, maintaining the jewelry’s integrity and appearance.
David Webb's use of enamel is a cornerstone of his jewelry design, offering vivid color and texture that enhance the visual appeal of his pieces. Enamel allowed Webb to express a wide range of artistic styles, from playful animal motifs to sophisticated geometric patterns, making his creations distinctive and recognizable.
This material, combined with high-quality metals and gemstones, not only added durability and a unique finish but also established his signature style. The interplay between enamel and gemstones in Webb's designs created luxurious and harmonious effects, solidifying his reputation as a master jeweler with a bold and imaginative approach.
Yes, David Webb Jewelry pieces are highly collectible and often appreciate in value over time. Due to their rarity, exquisite craftsmanship, and historical significance, many pieces are considered investment-worthy.
We guarantee the authenticity of all our David Webb jewelry pieces, ensuring each item meets our high standards before it reaches you.
We thoroughly examine each piece for distinctive hallmarks, craftsmanship quality, and the unique design characteristics that are synonymous with the David Webb brand. Our rigorous process includes checks for correct hallmarks, such as the "David Webb" stamp and metal purity marks, ensuring each item not only reflects the artistry and innovation expected of the brand but also holds its value as an authentic piece. This guarantee is part of our dedication to upholding the integrity and legacy of the David Webb brand, giving our customers confidence in the authenticity of each piece they purchase.
You can purchase authentic David Webb jewelry directly from 47 Jewelry’s website. We offer a curated selection of his iconic pieces, ranging from bold animal motifs to intricate enamel designs, all guaranteed authenticity. Our online collection allows you to browse and acquire these exquisite pieces conveniently, ensuring you receive a genuine David Webb creation that adds elegance and distinction to your jewelry collection.
David Webb was an iconic American jewelry designer known for his bold and luxurious designs. He founded his jewelry brand in 1948, and his pieces have been worn by celebrities, royalty, and collectors worldwide.
David Webb Jewelry is renowned for its striking use of color, intricate craftsmanship, and bold, geometric designs. The brand often incorporates rich enamels, precious gemstones, and signature animal motifs into its pieces, as seen from the selection at 47 Jewelry.
David Webb offers a wide range of jewelry, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and brooches. Each piece is meticulously crafted, often featuring vibrant enamel work, detailed gold settings, and precious gemstones like emeralds, rubies, and diamonds.
Yes, 47 Jewelry specializes in offering both new and vintage David Webb pieces. Our curated collection features iconic designs from various eras, ensuring you find a unique piece that resonates with your style.