PHOTO: Cynthia Britt, visionary designer and founder of Cynthia Britt Custom Jewelry, crafting timeless pieces that celebrate individuality and personal stories. Photo courtesy of Cynthia Britt
A Visionary Designer Shaping the Future of Fine Jewellery
Cynthia Britt transforms personal stories into bespoke jewellery masterpieces, blending artistry, sustainability, and individuality. Her innovative designs and ethical practices redefine fine jewellery, creating timeless pieces cherished for generations.
Few names in the world of fine jewellery command the admiration and respect that Cynthia Britt does. A true artisan and visionary, Cynthia has transformed the landscape of bespoke jewellery design, creating timeless pieces that celebrate individuality and personal stories. Based in Boston, she has earned a reputation as the go-to designer for those seeking jewellery that is as unique and meaningful as the moments it represents.
Cynthia’s journey is as inspiring as her creations. With a background in computer engineering and a family heritage steeped in artistry and craftsmanship, she brings a rare combination of technical precision and creative brilliance to her work. Her decision to follow her passion for jewellery design was a bold leap, but one that has resulted in a flourishing career defined by innovation, elegance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
What truly sets Cynthia apart is her bespoke approach. Every piece she creates is a reflection of the client’s personality, style, and story. From hand-sketching designs to crafting wax models and sourcing the finest ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones, Cynthia ensures that each creation is a perfect blend of artistry and individuality. Her ability to transform outdated heirlooms into modern masterpieces and her dedication to sustainable practices further highlight her exceptional talent and integrity.
Recognised by esteemed publications such as Forbes and Fortune, Cynthia’s work has reached a global audience, yet she remains deeply connected to her clients, drawing inspiration from their unique attributes and life experiences. Her recent ventures, including a ready-made collection of men’s wedding bands and upcoming designs for women, showcase her ability to innovate while staying true to her bespoke ethos.
This interview offers a glimpse into the mind of a designer who not only creates exquisite jewellery but also redefines what it means to wear a piece of art. Cynthia Britt’s work is a celebration of individuality, craftsmanship, and the enduring beauty of human connection. Prepare to be captivated by her story, her vision, and the artistry that has made her a true luminary in the world of fine jewellery.
What inspired you to start your journey in the jewelry design industry, and how did you establish Cynthia Britt Custom Jewelry?
I was an artist as a child but I pursued a degree in computer engineering and established a career in the field. In 1994, when the 6.7 magnitude Northridge, California, earthquake hit, it taught me that life is fleeting. Thus, I decided to follow my passion and learn the art of fine jewelry manufacturing so I could bring my imagination to life with my hands.
Can you describe your creative process when designing a custom piece of jewelry?
My process begins by studying each client. Either in person or through pictures, for remote customers, I carefully observe their personal style, their nature and physical attributes, such as hand structure for an engagement ring. Through my understanding, I translate their essence into a design that not only captures their individuality but also complements their unique features. I then hand-sketch the design in front of them.
Given each client’s criteria, I source the finest diamonds and gemstones from around the world, offering them an exclusive selection to choose from. Half math, half art, the result is a combination of meticulously crafted jewelry that resonates deeply with the wearer. Whether it’s an engagement ring, wedding band, anniversary gift, or a unique piece like a ring holder necklace, I craft jewelry that celebrates life’s special moments.
How do you incorporate sustainability and ethical practices into your jewelry-making process?
Sustainability and ethical practices are at the heart of my business.
My custom-made approach eliminates the waste inherent in mass production. By meticulously custom making each piece, I pay close attention to the quality and craftsmanship. This ensures that the jewelry I create stands the test of time, minimizing the need for frequent repair or renewal, fostering a sense of longevity and reducing our impact on the environment.
For diamonds and gemstones, I exclusively work with manufacturers who are certified by the Responsible Jewelry Council, and who abide by the guidelines set forth by the Kimberly Process to protect basic human rights at mine locations. I also hand pick each diamond and gemstone for every client. This allows me to trace the origin of each stone, ensuring transparency and upholding my commitment to advancing responsible diamond sourcing practices worldwide.
You’ve been featured in prestigious magazines like Forbes and Fortune. How has this recognition impacted your brand and career?
Being featured in publications like Forbes and Fortune has been an incredible honor. This recognition has significantly elevated my brand’s visibility and credibility. It has opened doors to new collaborations, partnerships, and a wider audience of discerning clients.
Moreover, this acclaim has served as a powerful validation of my artistic vision and commitment to excellence. It has fueled my passion to continue pushing creative boundaries and creating pieces that truly resonate with my clients and those who appreciate art.
What trends in jewelry design excite you the most, and how do you stay innovative in such a competitive industry?
While I acknowledge the ever-evolving landscape of jewelry trends, I don’t necessarily follow them. With an innovative approach, I create a unique piece of jewelry based on personal style. When I started my business, limited resources – both financial and in terms of support – necessitated a unique approach. Being able to visualize each person’s ring or any piece of jewelry, I embraced the concept of ‘bespoke jewelry,’ a relatively novel idea at the time. While ‘custom jewelry’ has since become a more prevalent term, often appearing even in retail settings, these offerings typically involve pre-designed templates where clients primarily select the gemstone, a pre-made mounting and the desired metal. This approach lacks the crucial element of personal consultation, where an artist studies the client’s individual attributes and preferences and creates a true bespoke and meaningful piece.
What’s next for Cynthia Britt Custom Jewelry, and are there any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon?
I recently launched my first ready made collection for men’s wedding bands and it has received a positive response. The collection caters to the unique needs of today’s gentleman. Recognizing that comfort and personal style are paramount, and that lifestyles vary greatly (a lawyer’s work environment differs from a chef’s), I’ve designed each ring with individuality in mind. Drawing inspiration from my custom client work, the online men’s wedding bands collection features a curated selection of most popular designs that flatter various hand shapes and personal styles. This selection is constantly updated and added to. Furthermore, a customization feature allows clients to personalize each ring, ensuring a perfect fit and expression of their unique style.
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be launching new ready made collections very soon, featuring stunning wedding bands and earrings for women. These are also highly requested pieces, and I can’t wait to share them. Stay tuned for the official launch and discover exquisite jewelry that embodies timeless elegance and contemporary style.