A star sapphire ring by De Vroomen, 2006, the cabochon star sapphire in a rubover setting, to a constructed bolt-style mount, signed ‘De Vroomen’, maker’s mark ‘LDV’, London hallmark, ring size approximately M½. £1,400-£1,600

Born in Holland during the Second World War, Leo de Vroomen was the youngest of eight siblings. His family were tulip farmers but from an early age Leo dreamed of a different life.

Following his apprenticeship in The Hague and qualifying as a Master Goldsmith in Switzerland, he came to London in 1965. It was whilst lecturing at the Central School of Art and Design that he met his future wife - the artist and designer Ginnie. They married and in 1976 together founded De Vroomen Design Ltd. The company rapidly expanded and the distinctive De Vroomen style gained international reputation.

During these years, Ginnie’s painting became increasingly important and in 1997, she had her first solo show in Chelsea.

De Vroomen went on to be the winners of the coveted De Beers Diamonds International Award in 1974, wining a second award in 1986.

In 1991, the Goldsmiths’ Hall held a retrospective exhibition of their work, marking 20 years of the partnership between Leo and Ginnie. A second exhibition at Goldsmiths’ Hall took place in the summer of 2017, to celebrate 50 years of De Vroomen jewellery, the jewellery exhibited to the backdrop of Ginnie’s exquisite paintings.

Over the years, De Vroomen have evolved their distinctive style, using strong sculptural forms modelled in gold and set with gemstones, enamel and pearls, their minimal use of diamonds showcasing the bold coloured stones, cloisonné and champlevé enamels.