Judy Evans Platinum & 22k Burmese Red Spinel & Natural Diamond Euro Shank Ring

Judy Evans

In the bustling hallways of an American high school, amidst the usual subjects, there was one unusual course that would change Judy Evans' life forever. It wasn't algebra or history, but a course on creative pursuits. It was here that Judy first felt the allure of jewelry design, a passion that would shape her destiny.

After this revelation, Judy's path was clear. She honed her skills at Iowa State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in jewelry design. Fresh out of university, the world of jewelry awaited. She collaborated with industry giants like J.B. Hudson, the Zale Corporation, and the Krementz Company. By 1998, she had carved a niche for herself, partnering with Frederick Goldman, Inc., a collaboration that gave the freedom to express her creativity and break design boundaries.

But Judy's star had begun to shine much earlier. In 1978, she dazzled the world by winning the Johnson Matthey Platinum Design Competition. This was no fleeting moment of fame; it was a testament to her enduring talent. Over the years, she clinched award after award, firmly establishing herself as one of America's jewelry design doyennes.

Judy's designs were a mirror to her soul. They echoed her love for dance, a passion she had nurtured since the age of 10, training in the Martha Graham modern dance technique. The fluidity of her dance movements found expression in her jewelry, giving them a unique sense of motion. Nature's hues, her dance, and her innovative ideas, like the "surprise stone" (a gemstone placed unexpectedly on the side of a jewelry piece) or the "square shank" (which ensured that a ring stayed upright and rested comfortably on the finger), blended seamlessly to create masterpieces.

But for Judy, design wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about the wearer's experience. She ensured her rings wouldn't snag on a delicate silk scarf or feel uncomfortable on a finger. She was also a pioneer in her use of Platinum, referring to it as the "King of Metals." Its durability, strength, and icy coolness made it the perfect medium for her creations, especially when paired with diamonds.

Judy's designs were not just limited to the American market. Her vision was to bring sophisticated, wearable designs to a discerning international clientele. With over 17 awards to her credit and a career spanning over 30 years, Judy's influence on the jewelry industry was undeniable. Her style was recognizable yet unpredictable, and she was as comfortable designing classic pieces as she was with contemporary ones.

One of Judy's lesser-known talents is her hand-painted renderings. These weren't mere sketches but artworks in their own right, capturing the essence of her designs more vividly than any computer could.

Today, the world remembers Judy Evans not just as a jewelry designer but as a trailblazer who redefined jewelry design. Her legacy, etched in precious metals and stones, is a testament to her undying passion, creativity, and innovation. In the ever-changing world of fashion, Judy's designs remain timeless, much like legends of old.