Suzanne Syz

Book excerpt: "Born in Zurich and educated in Paris, jewelry designer Suzanne Syz moved to New York City in the 1980s where she encountered legendary artists Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Julian Schnabel, Francesco Clemente, and Jeff Koons. Her relationships with these creative spirits greatly influenced her impressive contemporary art collection, and acted as a catalyst for her unique jewelry designs. Frustrated that she couldn't find the jewelry she wanted, Syz began crafting her own pieces in the mid-1990s. Today, the Geneva-based designer boasts a client list including the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Glora von Thurn und Taxis, the Archduchess Francesca von Habsburg-Thyssen, and Michelle Yeoh. Inspired by nature, childhood fairy tales, art, and her extensive travels, her one-of-a-kind creations are infused with an unparalleled sense of whimsy, joy, and magic"--Publisher's web site.