Considered a pioneer in jewelry design, Jean Vitau was a French designer known for his innovative pieces. Born in 1928, Vitau gained early experience working at his uncle’s jewelry shop in Paris and learned important craftsmanship skills. After years in Paris, Vitau moved to New York City with his family in the 1960s, carrying three eternity bands fashioned with his innovative, bar-style setting. The setting does not rely on prongs, but instead bars, holding stones securely and preventing snagging. Known as the Gemlock setting, Vitau patented this invention and, as a result, quickly made a name for himself in New York. He became an important supplier to Tiffany & Co., and his wedding band designs became a major success. Vitau also designed classic, but playful, jewelry, called the Jean Vitau Collection. Many of his imaginative pieces were inspired by nature and high-fashion, including colorful gemstones and precious metals. Vitau passed away in 2011 at the age of 83, leaving an iconic legacy.

Overall Condition: Light scratching throughout consistent with age and use.

Diamond Characteristics (graded insofar as mounting permits)
Color: F-G.
Clarity: VS.

Any information appearing in the Condition Report should be treated as opinion and is provided as a courtesy. Freeman’s is not responsible for any discrepancies, errors, or errors of omission. Please contact jewelrycr@freemansauction.com to request a Condition Report, if none is provided, or to request additional information or photographs of this lot. All lots are sold “AS IS”.

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