Darlene de Sedle
Darlene de Sedle was exposed to beautiful objects from a young age. Her father was a gemologist, archeologist, art historian and “Collector” of fine jewelry. Her childhood consisted of handling pre-Columbian gold amulets, gems, and 18th century Chinese perfume bottles carved from precious emeralds, tourmalines, jade, and amethyst.
Her father taught her everything she knows about precious gems, and he was encouraged by his wife, Darlene’s mother, to open a store where his treasures could be showcased. de Sedle’s Inc was created in 1929 at 574 Madison Avenue between 56th and 57th in New York City.
When de Sedle began creating her own fine jewelry line, she drew from her inspiring childhood. Her exposure to jewelry dating from 6000 BC in ancient Egypt, Greco Roman, and all periods of jewelry history, can be seen in her designs. Working with 22k gold, de Sedle uses the techniques and styles of the ancient crafts people before her to create new original designs.
Darlene is adamant about her pieces having real value, the way gold pieces would have in the ancient world. Using high carat gold, and the highest quality gemstones are non-negotiable. Her pieces are weighty in the hand, and can be traded in its leather pouch, instead of cash, for at least two camels, anywhere.
