Carolyn Tyler “Starfish” Necklace

“Starfish” Necklace (Italian Coral, 22k Gold, 18k Gold)

These rare peach-hued Italian coral beads (19 hand-shaped pieces) are cradled by individually hand-fabricated 22k granulated matte yellow gold caps, designed to resemble lively sea stars–1,113 carats total weight. Inspired by the designer’s deep love of scuba diving, this captivating “Starfish Lola” necklace embodies the creativity of the undersea world, adding a touch of the ocean’s magic to any look. Adjustable length: 19-22″ with a granulated toggle clasp. With coral beads this large, this necklace is a one-of-a-kind, and cannot be reproduced, due to the scarcity of the material. This true heirloom treasure is part of our Magnum Opus Collection of masterpieces. Earrings and rings to match are available.

About The Designs

For the past 32 years, my design journey has been driven by my deep love for gemstones, pearls, and the fascinating treasures of ancient history. Every year, I immerse myself in global gem trade show, where I seek out new sources of inspiration. Unlike many designers who create based on pre-conceived “seasonal collections,” I allow each piece to speak to me — it’s not about what’s trending, but about what ignites my creative spark. As I often say, “My true passion lies in hunting for unique materials that go beyond mere artistry. It’s about creating designs where beauty and meaning are forged together, resulting in pieces with talismanic power for the wearer. This is my professional raison d’etre.”

When I return to my studio, I sift through all the inspiration that the materials I’ve found have sparked in me. I envision the concepts, breathe life into them through sketches, and then collaborate with my master craftsmen and women, who help turn these ideas into stunning works of art. A great deal of my work is influenced by ancient cultures, something I have been passionate about from a young age. My parents nurtured this love of history and art. I remember being entranced by the Egyptian and Etruscan jewels we saw in museums — there was something deeply resonant about them, as though I had lived in those times myself.

My father, a polymath, also sparked my love for poetry, mythology, and the stars. He would recite the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, weave stories of Greek and Roman myths, and share his love of astronomy as he pointed out constellations in the night sky. Stories of Aladdin, Simba, and Alibaba ignited my fascination with exotic cultures. My British mother, with her own rich heritage, introduced me to Celtic and Druidic traditions, which continue to inspire my designs to this day.

A significant part of my inspiration also stems from the life I’ve lived in my adulthood, particularly my experiences beneath the water. My passion for diving has deeply influenced my designs, with many of my pieces incorporating elements of ocean life. This connection to the sea brings a sense of freedom and depth to my work. It’s this unique blend of history, culture, and intuition — enriched by my personal journey — that shapes my creative process, infusing each piece with the energy of both the past and the present.