The paradigm shift took place over lunch in Florence, Italy, circa 1992. Betony Vernon, a striking flame-haired jewelry designer, was showing off her most recent creation: the 18-karat-gold O-ring, designed with a nod to a bondage collar, with a smaller ring affixed to its front.
Playfully, Vernon's partner put his pinky through the smaller ring as she donned the larger one. Then, the unexpected happened. “There was an electric impulse running through this piece,” she recalls. “We both felt it.” The feeling changed her life. “That was the moment I knew that jewelry can provide sensation and reinforce an intimate bond.”
Enabling others to experience electric moments like that — to “bring luxury, fantasy and sensual possibilities to the fine-jewelry world” — has been Vernon's aim ever since. “Sex and luxury were never associated,” she noticed, and the jewelry designer set out to change that. The result was her 1992 Sado-Chic collection, which became the Paradise Found collection.
Vernon grew up in Virginia and studied art history, religion and goldsmithing at Virginia Commonwealth University. Following her graduation in 1990, she moved to Florence, later earning a master’s in industrial design from the Domus Academy in Milan. Europe has been home ever since.
Vernon's designs are provocative, sexy. But if you look no further than that, you’re missing a much bigger (and more interesting) point. Vernon’s rings, necklaces, bracelets and other accessories represent a vital part of what she sees as her life’s mission.
“Pleasure,” she explains, “has been associated with sin, wrongness and naughtiness, not with joy, happiness and bonding.” Vernon has set out to demolish that “pleasure taboo.”
So, how is pleasure reflected in the design of Vernon's jewelry (and remember, we are talking sensuality not sexuality)? Early in the design process, she asks, “How many senses can I turn on?” Every detail relates to a sensual experience.
That crisp snap a clasp makes when opening or closing? A pleasure to the ear.
The softness and spring of noble metals, silver and gold? A pleasure to the touch.
And always, Vernon believes, jewelry embodies memory, legacy. A pleasure for the soul.
Find a collection of Betony Vernon jewelry on 1stDibs.
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Maxi Mini" 18kt Gold - In Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Maxi Mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 2004. They are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering...
18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings mini" 18K Gold
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. They are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aest...
18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 - In Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Sterling Silver
$7,746Sale Price / item|20% Off
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Earrings" 18 Karat Gold in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O-Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Gold, 18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée mini" 18K Gold Diamond
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée mini" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated f...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Mini Earrings" 18 Karat Gold
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Mini Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Mini Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated ...
Gold, 18k Gold
Betony Vernon "Tassel Cocktail Earrings" Earrings Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "Tassel Cocktail Medium Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 2018 and manufactured in lost wax elements in Sterling Silver 925. They’re a delightful presence at the ears. ...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "Tassel Cocktail Long Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "Tassel Cocktail Long Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 2018 and manufactured in lost wax elements in Sterling Silver 925 in three exemplars only. They’re a delightful ...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Sapphire Pavée" 18 Karat Gold
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992 and are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aesthetic a...
Sapphire, Gold
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Earrings" 18 Karat Gold in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O-Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
18k Gold, Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" 18 Karat Gold Diamond
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aesthetic appeal. Betony Vernon herself says she feels naked without it! How to Adorn: The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" are designed for pierced ears. Take things a step further and attach BV Pendants or Attachments to the O-ring mechanism...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Earrings" 18 Karat Gold in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O-Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Gold, 18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Ruby Pavée" 18 Karat Gold
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992 and are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aesthetic a...
Ruby, Gold
Betony Vernon "Double Sphere Cocktail Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "Double Sphere Cocktail Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 2016. They’re a delightful presence at the ears, the "Double Sphere Cocktail Earrings" provide a delicate tapp...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "Double Sphere Cocktail Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "Double Sphere Cocktail Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 2016. They’re a delightful presence at the ears, the "Double Sphere Cocktail Earrings" provide a delicate tapp...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "Noble Rope Hoop Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 Earrings in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "Noble Rope Hoop Earrings" are part of the collection Noble Knots designed by Betony Vernon in 2017. The series is inspired by Shibari, the art of Japanese erotic bondage, and crafted with a Sterling Silver 925 weave that duplicates to precious perfection the enigmatic beauty of erotic bondage rope. The "Noble Rope Hoop Earrings" is crowned with Betony Vernon’s ball...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Earrings Ruby Pavée" Sterling Silver 925 Ruby in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Earrings Ruby Pavée" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992 and this unique piece was manufactured in 1997. The "O-Ring Earrings" series are a timeless classic of BV Jewe...
Ruby, Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "Noble Rope Hoop Small Earrings" Sterling Silver Earrings in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The one-a-kind "Noble Rope Hoop Earrings" are part of the collection Noble Knots designed by Betony Vernon in 2017. The series is inspired by Shibari, the art of Japanese erotic bondage, and crafted with a Sterling Silver 925 weave that duplicates to precious perfection the enigmatic beauty of erotic bondage rope. The "Noble Rope Hoop Earrings" are crowned with Betony Vernon’s ball...
Sterling Silver
18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Huggy Hoop Earrings
By Campanelli & Pear
Located in Troy, MI
These pretty earrings make the perfect gift for yourself or someone you love! The size is excellent for everyday wear with just the right amount of diamonds (0.04 Cttw). F-G VS 18KYG...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mattioli Classic Puzzle Large Earrings 18k Rose Gold
By Mattioli
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
Puzzle large earrings in rose gold Gold Weight 7.80gr Also available in white gold. Production time 4-5 weeks Joyful, colourful, whimsical are all defining Puzzle, Mattioli’s icon...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$565Sale Price / item|30% Off
18K Diamond 16 Pcs Diamond Hoop Earrings Mini Ear Huggies
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Diamond Hoop Earrings is made of 18K solid gold available in three colors of gold: White Gold / Rose Gold / Yellow Gold. Natural diamond huggies earrings set in 18K Gold. Dainty ear...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$8,396Sale Price|20% Off
H 1.2 in W 0.12 in L 1.21 in
3.50 Carat Diamond Inside Out Hoop Earrings 14 Karat In Stock
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Material: 14k White Gold Diamond Details: Approx. 3.50ct of round cut diamonds. Diamonds are G/H in color and VS in clarity. 46 stones Earring Measurements: 30.60mm x 30.45mm x 2.80...
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Estate Garavelli Large Hoop Diamond 18K White Gold Earrings
By Garavelli
Located in Houston, TX
18K white gold pavé diamond hoop earrings marked "Garavelli". There are 780 round diamonds with a total carat weight of 13.50; G-H color and VVS2-VS1 clarity. Measure 1 3/4 inches ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mattioli Old Puzzle Large Earrings 18k white Gold and Diamonds
By Mattioli
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
Puzzle large earrings in Yellow gold Gold Weight gr.: 4 gr Carat diamonds 0.40ct Also available in white and rose and white gold. If not in stock Production Time 4-5 weeks Joyful, c...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,000
W 0.36 in L 0.75 in
18kt White Gold Triple Hoop Earrings, 4.8 Grams, Friction/Omega, 19x9.2mm, 750
Located in San Diego, CA
18kt White Gold Triple Hoop Earrings, 19mm Long x 9.2mm Wide, 4.8 Grams, Friction Post w/ Omega Backing, Hollow. Beautiful earrings that are ...
White Gold, 14k Gold
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Walking Panthere Earrings
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Vintage “Panthère de Cartier” walking panther diamond hoop earrings. Indulge in the timeless allure of these exquisite Cartier 18k Yellow Gold Walking Panthère Diamond Hoop ...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
$7,680 / item
H 0.58 in W 0.17 in D 0.5 in
Alex Sepkus "Oval Hoop" Earrings with White Diamonds in 18 Karat Yellow Gold
By Alex Sepkus
Located in SOLVANG, CA
From the studio of Alex Sepkus in New York - 18 karat yellow gold "Oval Hoop" earrings with white brilliant cut diamonds. Total diamond weight of fourteen diamonds is 0.44 carat. Hin...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$197Sale Price / set|50% Off
H 0.9 in W 0.14 in D 0.13 in
Silvorra Modernist Blue Sapphire Earrings in 925 Sterling Silver for Mom's Gift
Located in New York, NY
An elegant pair of blue sapphire earrings featuring 1.88 carats of gemstones, crafted in 925 sterling silver and designed with a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. The earrings showcase ...
Blue Sapphire, Silver, Sterling Silver
Ralph Masri Arabesque Deco 18kt White Gold Diamond Star Hoops
By Ralph Masri
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
18kt white gold earrings with diamonds from Ralph Masri's Arabesque Deco collection, inspired by Middle Eastern patterns and motifs infused with an Art Deco touch. Can be made in y...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,870Sale Price / item|20% Off
W 0.14 in L 0.66 in
18K White Gold Blue Sapphire and Diamond Huggie Hoop Earrings
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Earrings create a subtle beauty while showcasing the colors of the natural precious gemstones and illuminating diamonds making a statement. Square cut blue sapphire earrings in 18K ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings mini" Sterling Silver 925
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. They are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aest...
Sterling Silver
Sold
H 0.28 in W 0.24 in D 0.12 in Dm 0.12 in L 0.24 in
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Maxi Mini" 18kt Gold - In Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Maxi Mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 2004. They are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering...
18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings mini" Sterling Silver 925 - In Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. They are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aest...
18k Gold, Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings mini" Sterling Silver 925
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. They are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their empowering aest...
18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings" Sterling Silver 925
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Hoop Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 Earrings in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Hoop Earrings" design is a variation from the timeless BV classic O'Ring Earrings which some collectors say they feel naked without. They are appreciated for their symbol...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Earrings" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Earrings" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O-Ring Earrings" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their symbolic as well as their emp...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" 18 Karat Gold Diamond in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated for their s...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée mini" 18K Gold Diamond in Stock
By Betony Vernon
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée mini" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1992. The "O'Ring Earrings Diamond Pavée mini" are a timeless classic of BV Jewelry. They are appreciated f...
Diamond, 18k Gold