A ndrew Grima's daring imaginative and charismatic designs made him a revolutionary of 1960s British jewellery. Entirely self-taught, Roman-born Grima studied mechanical engineering in London before joining the Royal Engineers during World War II. After the war, Grima begin work in the accounts division of his father-in-law’s jewellery firm in London before moving into the design department.
Purely design driven, Grima never let technicalities limit his imagination, creating cutting edge designs using colourful and bold gemstones set in golden irregular and artistic structures. Typically only making one of each design, each piece is limited and truly unique.
Edgy and exciting, Grim gathered a cult following of celebrity. He became the go-to society jeweller to the elite. Prince Philip gifted Queen Elizabeth a ruby and diamond brooch, while Princess Margaret, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Ursula Andress and Estée Lauder were among his clients. In 2012, Estée Lauder’s White Gold and Diamond Pendant-Brooch sold for double its estimate in the Sotheby's New York Magnificent Jewels sale.
Today Grima is recognised as one of the great modernist jewellery designers of the 20th century. His creations often top auction charts and sell over their estimates. His work can be seen at the Victoria & Albert Museum, while fashion designers Marc Jacobs and Miuccia Prada are collectors.
Our Fine Jewels Online sale features two of Grima’s cutting edge designs, available to view 14 – 17 September in our New Bond Street Galleries.
