Jewelry from the 1960s and 1970s was as revolutionary as the times themselves. Influenced by a period marked by the space race, rock ‘n’ roll, the Beatles, the Vietnam War, the Kennedy assassinations, the Civil Rights movement, Pop Art, the Women’s Movement, the emergence of the Pill, and the concept of free love, this jewelry captured the spirit of an era defined by change and nonconformity. These cultural shifts gave rise to creations that embodied individuality and the aesthetic, political, and intellectual beliefs of their wearers.

The artists showcased in Simply Brilliant saw themselves as creators first and foremost, with jewelry as their chosen medium for modern artistic expression. Their work, predominantly in yellow gold and featuring both precious and semi-precious stones, drew inspiration from the natural world and space-age themes. Embracing organic forms and abstract shapes, they experimented with unconventional materials like coral, shell, geodes, and moldavite, pushing the boundaries of texture and design. This unique style resonated with those seeking distinct and bold expressions during an era that celebrated originality.

This exhibition, featuring around 120 extraordinary pieces, reflects the discerning taste of a single collector and delves into the international revival of fine jewelry during the 1960s and 1970s. Assembled by Kimberly Klosterman, a Cincinnati-based collector, the collection includes works by independent artisans such as Andrew Grima, Gilbert Albert, Arthur King, Jean Vendome, and Barbara Anton, as well as pieces crafted for renowned houses like Bulgari, Cartier, and Boucheron.

Accompanying the exhibition is a full-color illustrated catalogue, enriched with essays by leading experts in the field. It includes detailed biographies of each designer or house, full-color images, in-depth commentary on selected standout pieces, and an appendix of maker’s marks.