With a fine eye for top quality jewelry and taste refined by studies at L’ecole Van Cleef & Arpels, Christie’s and a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certificate, Nicole Whisenhunt is the best person to go to.
Hosted by Blah Blah Inc., the recent exhibit at the Leon Gallery showcased the best in Nicole’s latest jewelry collection that should be perfect for the coming holiday season.
The eye-catching jewels and gems featured pieces from her own collection as well as a vast array of vintage and antique pieces — ranging from top Italian, French and American jewelry houses featuring the Art Deco period to the 1970 to 1990s pieces by designers such as Marina B, granddaughter of Sotirio Bulgari, founder of the famed Bulgari house.
At a very young age, Nicole started making accessories and costume jewelry, moving to better quality jewelry and eventually finding her niche as a jeweler with the finest of taste that has been honed through the decades. Her good friend Jaime Ponce de Leon guided her by showing that the workmanship of top-quality estate pieces is incomparable and often reminding her, “Traveling is the best way to hone the eye,” as she immersed herself in creativity, history, and travel — all things that Nicole found joyful in her work.
During the recent three-day exhibit at the Leon Gallery, appreciative collectors and buyers tried on the best jewelry pieces. In fact, a number of high-ticket items were reserved and presold before opening day. As we congratulated Nicole, she mentioned, “My work is my passion. There are so many facets to it that I truly enjoy. Whether it’s to create milestone pieces for my clients or to travel all over the world to find the best estate pieces. I find inspiration everywhere — in the moment, in feelings, or being exposed visually.”
* * *
Nicole Whisenhunt boutique is located at the Power Plant mall, Rockwell, Makati.