Carolyn Tyler “Bagan” Cuff Bracelet

“Bagan” Cuff Bracelet (Black and Orange Coral Set with Gems, 22k Gold)

This stunning bespoke “Bagan” cuff bracelet was meticulously hand-carved from black water buffalo horn with figures inspired by the Apsara goddesses on the temple walls of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The intricate 22k gold spirals encase a 32 carat Italian natural orange Italian coral gem, hand-carved with a seated buddha motif, accented with .9 carats of faceted multicolored African sapphires and .5 carats of garnets of varying shapes, and lined with sterling .925 silver on the inner rims. Part of our Magnum Opus Collection of unique designs, this cuff is a durable and timeless “wearable art” masterpiece that generations to come will cherish as a family heirloom. Made for medium/large wrists.

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.