As each exquisite design hit the runway, the dazzling beauty of the jewelry took yet another breath away. In Miami, the debut of the Luis Felipe Jewelry Designs Winter/Spring Diamond Collection was more than enough to remind every onlooker of why they say diamonds are forever. Once one of these gleaming pieces captivates admiring eyes, it leaves a lasting impression—forever.
For Luis Felipe Perez, his passion for jewelry design has been evident since the age of 12. Born in Havana, Cuba in 1972 and living with his family in Miami by 1977, Perez went on to the Gemological Institute of America to learn the study of gems and precious stones after graduating high school in 1990. In 1995, he opened his first retail jewelry store, quickly establishing a large base of private and wholesale clients. Soon after, he followed his success by moving into the business of diamonds and wholesale and the designing of his own collection.
Since that time, Luis Felipe Perez has established himself as one of the most successful independent private jewelers in the country. Specializing in using the rarest of stones and best of quality in his designs, Perez has created jewelry lines for department stores across the country while also maintaining a following of private clients. October 2008 marked the completion of a year devoted to the creation of earrings, bracelets and necklaces for the Luis Felipe Jewelry Designs Winter/Spring Diamond Collection. The gleaming debut in Miami featured $20 million in diamonds.
During the premiere of the new collection, models dressed in bold black took to the runway while the diamonds they wore danced in the lights. The collection, classic yet unique, features pieces with long strands of diamonds to adorn a bare back—certainly a highlight of the show. Perez was in attendance to present the collection and took time to meet with guests during the reception afterwards. Recalling the night of the premiere, Perez said, “I felt many things, but most of all, I felt proud of the hard work we did for almost one year, myself and all those who collaborated with me, in making the night possible.”
Perez specializes in one-of-a-kind, custom-made pieces created to encompass every detail of his clients’ specifications. Using precious metals and stones including diamonds, rubies, sapphires and birthstones, he creates timeless jewelry to match each customer’s vision. “My specialty,” explains Perez, “is loose diamonds; I love to work with loose diamonds to make long diamond necklaces, bracelets and earrings.” He continues, “My favorite part of this business, I have to admit, is creating special wedding and engagement rings.”
“Art and jewel design go hand in hand,” says the Miami-based designer, and to a tee, he follows that mantra. Perez states, “My inspiration has always been the beautiful women, and this great romantic yet glamorous city we live in.” His awe-inspiring creations are the perfect accessories for any occasion, from elegant balls and charity events to a romantic evening out on the town. Perez has offices in New York and Miami, each with showrooms, where the designer consults with his clients one-on-one by appointment only. As for what the future holds, Perez says his plan is to “start new lines and designs for next year and continue to dazzle all of our current clients and potential new ones with amazing one of a kind pieces.” SA

Photographed by Zoltan Prepszent