Ray Griffiths’ enduring love for the craft of making fine jewelry spans more than forty years, and it’s been his constant companion while creating fabulous jewels for his avid fans. Ray connected to art in jewelry from an early age, which set his feet on a lifelong journey that started in his native Melbourne, Australia, and later planted him in the heart of New York City.
Spending weekends assisting his shoemaker father as a child shaped his fascination for craftsmanship and attention to detail. Fueled by a love of gemstones and jewelry, Ray got an apprenticeship and studied the art of jewelry construction under master jewelers whilst still a teenager; he then went on to obtain degrees in Gemology and Diamond Technology.
A very successful career as partner and head designer for Sydney’s premier jewelry store in the 80’s and 90’s followed until the call to New York could no longer be ignored and Ray Griffiths Fine Jewelry was born. Next was the move into his dream studio on 5th avenue where he designs and creates all his pieces.
Beyond doubt, jewelry is Ray Griffiths’ love language. He showers people with love when he bestows a piece of his jewelry and offers people a means to express love when he creates it. Each Ray Griffiths design speaks of his life’s adventures, his passion for gemstones and the history that inspires him including the Edwardian and Regency eras, The Spanish Moors, Roman Greco and Mid Century.
Jewelry lovers and collectors appreciate the special pieces Griffiths creates, but ultimately it’s his continuous passion for crafting beautiful things that keeps his fans coming back for more.
The New York Times “Styles” section raved, “I was stunned by the work of Ray Griffiths, an Australian designer trained in the dying art of designing and repairing crowns for royalty. His bracelets are jaw-dropping…”
What is Crownwork?
Crownwork® is the grid-like pattern that features in all Ray Griffiths designs. Crownwork®’s design roots are in Ray’s early training restoring Vintage European Suites of Jewelry. Aside from the distinctive design element, it is the signature of Ray’s work. Crownwork® takes much of the weight from the jewelry allowing Ray’s designs to retain visual heft yet remain light and easy to wear.
