Thirteen THOUSAND Swarovski crystals. Can you imagine the stunning sparkle and beauty that thirteen thousand crystals creates? I can tell you it’s simply magnificent! Women around the world for decades have yearned to own a Jay Strongwater piece like the stunning 20th anniversary, limited edition (only 20 made) fantail peacock that I’m referencing that is a true jewel for your home.
Celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Elton John and Oprah have all been proud owners of his designs which encompass everything from enameled boxes, bejeweled candlesticks, statement figurines and hand-set jewelry.
I had the absolute pleasure of meeting and interviewing Jay Strongwater at Neiman Marcus at The Shops of La Cantera in San Antonio, TX this past week. When I say it was a PLEASURE I truly mean it. His kind spirit immediately put me at ease and his joy over his designs was simply infectious.
Jay’s love of design began as a young child. He famously made a necklace for his mother which then caught the attention of a fashion buyer leading to the development of his jewelry collection. At the young age of 23, he began collaborating with the iconic fashion designer, Oscar de la Renta, and began designing pieces for his runway shows. During the 1990s, Strongwater began his home collection which quickly had collectors coming back for more!
Each of his pieces were breathtaking – shimmering with jewels, crystals, pearls and other embellishments. One of my favorite pieces was this 20th anniversary grand floral chest. It is hand-set with over 5,000 Swarovski crystals in tones of gold, crystal and opal. This would truly be the centerpiece of any room.
He is also famous for his collectible ornaments and this 20th anniversary glass ornament with stand was so wow-inducing that I had to give you a close-up of its detailing.
Here is a close-up of that amazing peacock that contained over 13,000 crystals!
And don’t forget about his jewelry which originally launched his career. I had fun draping them over me and absolutely wanted all of them!
After admiring all of his pieces on display I was about to leave when Jay gestured me over to his table where he was kindly signing his pieces for collectors. He asked me to wait for a moment. I was absolutely overjoyed when he signed and handed over one of his stunning frames and said, “I just wanted you to have this.” With such a simple gesture of generosity and kindness he has found his way in to my heart for forever!
And if you happen to read this Mr. Strongwater I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart! This little fashion blogger in San Antonio, TX will never forget it!
How exciting! His pieces are gorgeous!!