1980s Elizabeth Gage Onyx Gold Choker Necklace

Jewelry designer and goldsmith Elizabeth Gage has been creating luxurious gold statement jewelry for more than half a century, attracting attention from enthusiastic lovers of personal adornment all over the world. For their boldness and sophistication, Gage’s ornate necklaces, rings and other accessories have earned her a place among the most influential gold jewelry designers of our day.

Gage’s love of creating beautiful things started at an early age. Born in England in 1937, Gage would often create her own toys to play with. She frequently made houses for her dolls and clothing for them to wear, working with her hands and developing skills that would become integral to the flourishing career she would have one day.

Gage went on to study design and goldsmithing at the Chelsea School of Art and Sir John Cass College. She began designing under her own name in 1965 and received her first major commission from Cartier. The New York branch of the prestigious French luxury house invited Gage in 1968 to create a collection for their new catalog, where her eye-catching statement jewelry made a huge splash. (A year later, designer Aldo Cipullo would create his transformational Love bracelet for the brand after Tiffany & Co. reportedly passed on his now-iconic cuff.)

Gage’s cocktail rings, clip-on earrings and pendants — with their baroque ornamentation and intricate raised carvings — look to historical eras and design movements. Gage is internationally acclaimed as a leader in her field and she is a member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in recognition of her contributions to art and design. She was awarded the De Beers International Diamond Award in 1972, and the Queen's Award for Export Achievement in 1989. In 2008, Retail Jeweller awarded her their Lifetime Achievement Award.

Gage’s collections have been exhibited in notable museums including the New Britain Museum of American Art in Connecticut. Famed Hollywood actress Lauren Bacall famously fell in love with Gage’s work, striking up a personal friendship with the designer and ultimately ordering more than 20 pieces of jewelry from her over the actress’s lifetime.

Today, Gage continues to design pieces that are crafted by her expert goldsmiths, which she sells at her boutique in Belgravia, London.

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