A Jewel Box for a Fine Jeweler
Explore the world of fine jeweler Lauren Harwell Godfrey, whose pieces transform global travels, personal stories, and meaningful symbolism into exquisite works of art.
Fine jewelry designer Lauren Harwell Godfrey is a modern-day flâneur, traveling the world with
curious intent and turning observation into art. With a designer’s eye and a seeker’s heart, she
transforms her discoveries into fine jewelry that carries both weight and wonder. Godfrey’s creations exist at the intersection of universal symbolism and personal narrative, where the earth’s raw materials hold both potential and memory. This deliberate approach to creation resonates with The Fifth Avenue Hotel’s own love for objects that tell compelling stories. Ahead of the 2025 Met Gala, we caught up with Godfrey to learn more about her creative process, inspiration, and what she loves in New York.
The Alchemy of Selection
For Godfrey, gemstone selection is the foundation of her art. “The process of selecting gemstones is deeply personal and intentional, guided by a reverence for both their natural beauty and the energy they hold,” she explains. Her travels across the globe to gem markets—be they Tuscon, Arizona, or Mexico City—are quests for something specific but undefinable. “I look for stones that tell a story—those with unique character and an undeniable presence. I’m drawn to gemstones with vibrant, saturated colors and cuts that enhance their natural brilliance,” she says. Yet, beauty alone isn’t enough; ethical sourcing is equally important to Godfrey. “I seek out gems that come from responsible suppliers who prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices,” she notes. Lastly, the stones she selects also evoke a sense of protection, power, and meaning. She explains, “Whether it’s a mesmerizing opal, a richly hued sapphire, or an unexpected, one-of-a-kind specimen, each stone becomes the heart of a piece, bringing with it a story that connects the wearer to something greater.”
Autobiographical Inspirations
Godfrey’s designs speak directly to the flâneur within us, encouraging us to appreciate life’s
often-overlooked details. “My designs are autobiographical and therefore come from a tapestry of inspirations—travel, interiors, my love of food, gardening, and art—all woven into bold, symbolic pieces.” Nature’s influence is particularly evident throughout her collections. “From the structured beauty of hexagonal honeycombs to the symbolism of celestial bodies, I’m drawn to motifs that represent transformation and protection,” she explains. Her passion for gardening deepens this connection, offering endless inspiration through its constant cycles of growth and renewal.
Cabinet of Curiosities: Bespoke Treasures
Like the treasures in The Fifth Avenue Hotel’s curated spaces, Godfrey’s pieces celebrate the rare, the personal, and the meaningful. When asked which of her bespoke commissions might find a home in a cabinet of curiosities, she offers two particularly resonant examples. Then there’s the piece she created to mark her own milestone. “For my 50th birthday, I designed a headpiece inspired by the phases of the moon,” she says. “Crafted in 18-karat gold with pearls and diamonds, it celebrates the passage of time and all the beauty that comes with it.”
New York Through A Jeweler’s Eye
With her office situated in Bryant Park, Godfrey’s relationship with New York balances professional focus with cultural exploration. “Much of my time in New York revolves around work in the Diamond District—sourcing stones and collaborating with my production team,” she explains. Yet each visit also offers opportunities to engage with the city’s offerings. Her spring itinerary reveals a discerning eye for meaningful artistic expression. “At the top of my list is Lorna Simpson’s ‘Source Notes’ at The Met. I’m always drawn to artists who weave storytelling with rich textures, much like I do in my own designs.” Perhaps most revealing is her appreciation for the simple act of exploring the city on foot—the quintessential flâneur’s activity. “I can wander for hours—people-watching, window-shopping, and stumbling upon hidden gems,” she says. “New York is always evolving, full of surprises, and that’s what makes every visit so inspiring.”
