Some of Judith Ripka’s earliest memories are of playing with her mother’s jewelry. While friends were playing sports or with their dolls, Judith was playing with her mom’s jewelry, seeing what jewelry went with what outfit. In 1977 her first 18 carat gold collection made its debut and today, Judith heads the Judith Ripka Companies, Inc., a multi-million dollar business with headquarters in New York.
There are many distinctive qualities to Judith Ripka jewelry. The first is that you are likely to find a heart shape hidden on just about every piece of jewelry she designs. It is viewed as a not so secret connection between designer and customer.
Judith Repka designs tend to use of lots of texture. In her 18 carat gold and sterling silver pieces, this texture will take place in the form of roping, beading, and the use of matte finishes. This texture creates a familiar Judith Ripka “look”.
Another unique trait of a Judith Ripka design is her use of lobster claw closures. The mechanism itself isn’t as unique as how it is designed to be worn. You see, with or without a pendant, a Judith Ripka lobster claw closure is meant to be worn in the front, as pictured below.
Finally, Judith Ripka designs always have a finished look, that includes the side that is not normally seen when worn. Ripka’s attention to detail doesn’t stop with the jewelry’s exterior, it isn’t considered complete until it is finished inside and out.
From her use of multi-faceted stones, to her inside-out finishing touches, to her signature hidden heart, Judith Ripka’s designs have become so desired in great part because of her attention to detail. Ripka has built a loyal following and a multi-million dollar business, and it all started by playing with her mother’s jewelry.
Raymond Z for Raymond Lee Jewelers, premiere fine jewelry and luxury watch boutique and buyer.
