While on my recent travels to Aruba, I discovered a jewelry artist that impressed me unlike any other I have previously seen. I thought I had uncovered something new, but while doing some more research on this Canadian jeweler based in Bali, I realized his work is actually quite well known with retailers all over the world. Perhaps I’m just the last to find out. For those of you out there who, like me, have not yet been introduced to this creator, I present to you: John Hardy.

Not a single catalog picture I’ve seen does this jewelry any justice. The tiny details, various intricacies and heft of his pieces make each one look and feel like an art form rather than a mere decorative trinket. I lingered over his display at the jewelry store for a pretty long time. Even my hubby was impressed with the craftsmanship, which was great since it made it all the easier to walk away with the stunning 36″ Ayu Dot Gold and Silver Pearl Necklace pictured above.

While there is plenty of John Hardy jewelry readily available online, it has been surprisingly difficult to locate this particular necklace or even a professional picture of it. The aforementioned link is the only one I could find to this piece and it isn’t available for purchase online or even mention a price tag, though it does list a telephone number you can call for inquiries. And since I was unable to locate a good product shot, I model the necklace for you (above), worn as a double strand.

Almost all of his jewelry is unique and brilliant. But here are a few more pieces that particularly struck my fancy.