Marc Koven was a mid-20th-century jewelry designer known for his innovative and distinctive creations. He originally came to New York City from Paris in 1940, where he established his jewellery studio on East 48th Street. One year later, his creations were being sold at Bergdorf Goodman who used his jewellery in their New York Times advertisements.
Koven was particularly famous for inventing “caged jewels,” a unique design technique that became one of his trademarks. His work gained significant recognition, earning him numerous accolades, including six wins at the annual Diamonds International Jewelry Design Award. In 1958, Koven won three awards at the Diamonds USA International Design Competition, further solidifying his status in the jewelry world.
Koven’s designs were celebrated in various prestigious publications, including Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and Town & Country. He also had a fashionable Paris jewellery shop on Avenue Victor Hugo.
His style was characterized by a blend of modernity and elegance, often incorporating gold cages, pearls, and other precious stones.
In addition to his work in jewelry design, Koven was also involved in the fine arts. Before establishing his jewelry studio in New York City in the 1940s, he had a background as a painter specializing in nudes. This artistic foundation informed his approach to jewelry design, giving his pieces a sculptural quality that set them apart from more conventional designs.
Marc Koven’s influence in the world of jewelry design continues to be recognized by collectors and enthusiasts, with his pieces still being sought after and celebrated for their artistic and innovative qualities.
