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In the world of high-end jewellery design, Bleue Burnham stands out for his distinctive approach to creating engagement rings. Rather than focusing on the spending power of his clients, Burnham prioritises meaning and value, crafting something unique and special for each couple.
This approach has resonated with many, including Travis Kelce, the NFL star who recently announced his engagement to pop sensation Taylor Swift. The couple's engagement, considered Hollywood's biggest of the year, features a 7.5 carat ring set in antique decorative reproduction, estimated to be worth between $1.5 to $2 million.
Burnham, the latest recipient of the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund, has made a name for himself by catering to clients who seek something special and of value, but not overly flashy. His designs often reflect the relationship's meaning, a departure from the traditional focus on size and flashiness.
Caroline Issa, who awarded Burnham with the BFC/GQ Designer Fashion Fund, praises his work, saying, "Bleue Burnham's designs are a breath of fresh air in the jewellery industry. His focus on creating something unique and meaningful for each couple is truly commendable."
Cenan Afsarpour, founder of jewellery label Sketchy Bones Collective, shares similar sentiments. "Most of my clients are looking for sentimental value over ring size," he says. "They want something special and unique to them and their partner."
Insurance premiums are a concern for many when it comes to expensive engagement rings, but Burnham believes that the idea of an incredibly expensive ring is scary for most people due to the risk of loss. He emphasises the importance of personal preference, stating that no client has ever asked for a ring to be larger than it should be.
The engagement photo of Kelce and Swift, set in a scene with pink and white blooms, has received 27 million likes on Instagram, further highlighting the public's fascination with unique and meaningful engagement rings.
Despite working with wealthy clients, Burnham's philosophy remains the same: "Most people do not have a security detail," he says. "They need a ring that reflects their love and commitment, not just their wealth."
In a world where flashy and expensive often dominate, Burnham's focus on meaning and value is a refreshing change, making him a favourite among those seeking a unique and special engagement ring.
