Remembering Ward Landrigan
On November 9, 2025, the shining world of high jewelry dimmed with the passing of Ward Landrigan at the age of 84, succumbing to complications from pancreatic cancer in a Manhattan hospital. Known as a jeweler to the stars, Landrigan was instrumental in reviving the famed Verdura brand and played a significant role during his tenure at Sotheby's.
Early Beginnings
Born Edward John Landrigan III on August 7, 1941, in Newark, New Jersey, Ward's journey into the jewelry business began serendipitously. A Boy Scout merit badge led him to a local jewelry shop, where he spent a summer learning the ropes. Despite his modest beginnings, he cultivated a deep appreciation for the art of jewelry.
A Midas Touch at Sotheby's
In the 1960s, he became the head of the jewelry division at Sotheby's, where he garnered attention for his auction expertise, particularly during landmark sales involving iconic pieces. He famously delivered two remarkable diamonds to Hollywood couple Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, solidifying his place in the annals of jewelry history.
“Look at my short, fat little fingers now!” exclaimed Taylor when the couple received the astounding Krupp diamond, a defining moment in both Landrigan's career and Hollywood lore.
The Revival of Verdura
Perhaps Landrigan's most significant achievement came in 1984 when he purchased Verdura, a storied brand originally founded by Sicilian Duke Fulco Santostefano della Cerda. This renowned house, once famed for its exquisite designs and clients like Babe Paley and Coco Chanel, had lost its luster. With Landrigan at the helm, the company flourished, transitioning from $1 million in annual revenue to over $20 million.
High Society and Beyond
Under Landrigan's stewardship, Verdura not only rolled out designs stemming from thousands of sketches left by the duke, but also continued to innovate, attracting a new generation of clients, including names like Sofia Coppola and Carolina Herrera. His dedication to forging strong relationships paid off as he transitioned the brand into a new era.
Memorable Anecdotes
Landrigan often regaled friends and family with tales from his illustrious career. He vividly described the scene during the auction of the infamous Taylor-Burton diamond, detailing how he brokered a deal to ensure the coveted piece ended up where it belonged — on Taylor's neck. Such stories exemplify his charisma and dedication to his craft.
A Legacy in Diamonds
Even beyond his business acumen, his unique personality and nuanced understanding of both art and business were key factors in his success. His legacy, one of luxury and elegance, will be remembered not only through the pieces he created but through the vision he imparted on the jewelry industry.
Conclusion
Ward Landrigan leaves behind a legacy filled with creativity, innovation, and the highest standards of craftsmanship in the realm of jewelry. His contributions shaped the landscape of high jewelry, and he will be dearly missed by the many lives he touched—both through his creations and his compelling stories.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/20/fashion/ward-landrigan-dead.html
