Pair of Lorraine West "Abstract Palette" earrings, brass

Pair of Brass 'Abstract Palette' Earrings, Lorraine West

Designed as large curved discs with slightly textured surfaces, gross weight approximately 32 dwts, dimensions approximately 4 x 3½ inches, signed LW. With signed box.

Lorraine West is a New York-based jewelry designer celebrated for her handcrafted contemporary and fine jewelry that blends bold, minimalist designs with deep cultural and spiritual significance. As a self-taught jewelry designer, bench jeweler and craftswoman, Lorraine pays homage to her Caribbean roots by incorporating symbolic and geometric elements into her pieces, aiming to reflect the inner beauty and power of the wearer.

Her journey into jewelry making began during her studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she earned a BFA in Illustration. Inspired by her parents—her mother, a baker & gardener and her father, a carpenter & collage artist —Lorraine developed a natural affinity for working with her hands, which she now channels into welding and manipulating precious metals. For her, this process is not just a technique but a spiritual practice that infuses each design with authenticity and love.

Lorraine's creations have garnered attention from high-profile celebrities, including Zendaya, Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, Tracee Ellis Ross, Mary J. Blige, and Serena Williams. Operating out of her New York City studio, Lorraine West Jewelry offers a range of made-to-order and bespoke pieces that resonate with her signature ethos of love and artistry. Each item is meticulously crafted, ensuring that every piece is not just jewelry but a meaningful expression of empowerment and connection.

The 'Abstract Palette' earrings were inspired by a painter’s palette–a nod to Lorraine West's days as an illustrator. They face opposite directions, like a yin and yang, representing balance. The artist's website explains, "[She] designed these earrings as a tribute to all people that are painting a new world through their positive cause in life.” The earrings have been a huge success for the independent jewelry brand.

This exact pair was worn by the English model, actress, and singer Suki Waterhouse in a photoshoot for Melanie Grant's The Jewelry Book. The style has also been worn by several other iconic women, including Viola Davis and Jennifer Hudson. Beyoncé wore the style while performing "Water" in her 2020 film Black is King, and Mary J. Blige and Zendaya both wore the earrings in their respective InStyle magazine editorial shoots.

Inspired by West's own creative career path, this bold style has adorned several iconic women trailblazing today's world of fashion.

Condition Report

In very good condition. Composed of brass with 14 karat gold posts.