The Origins of Lorraine Schwartz’s “Diamond Monkeys”

The story of this project goes back to 2006 — during a visit to a jewelry artisan in Hong Kong, Lorraine Schwartz noticed three monkeys carved from lavender jadeite. She only later discovered their symbolism (Mizaru, Kikazaru, Iwazaru — “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”), but that moment sparked the creation of a necklace that combines humor, amulet-like meaning, and luxury.

The inspiration, symbolism, and an exclusive conversation with the designer at the Harrods Fine Jewellery Room were covered by the blog Gemologue (Liza Urla).

The Diamond Monkey collection premiered on June 20, 2007, at the Monkey Bar, Hotel Elysee in New York, in collaboration with Bergdorf Goodman. The event was attended by celebrities such as Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, and Pharrell Williams — confirmed by photo galleries from Patrick McMullan and Getty Images.

How the Necklace Is Made: Variants, Materials & Specifications

The Diamond Monkey Necklace was produced in several versions, but all share key design elements:

18K gold (often blackened or ruthenium-plated for contrast),

yellow and white diamonds set in pavé, sometimes complemented by rose-cut diamonds,

a distinctive bezel-set chain with round brilliant-cut diamonds in each link.

Documented market specifications include:

“Hear No Evil” (Lorraine Schwartz) — crafted in 18K gold, featuring approx. 1.70 ct of yellow and white diamonds in the pendant + approx. 0.64 ct in the chain; partial black rhodium plating adds contrast. Data sourced from 1stDibs.

Christie’s catalogued version (Jewels Online) — 18K blackened white gold, 19 rose-cut diamonds, 82 round brilliant diamonds (1.70–1.80 ct total) + approx. 1,080 coloured diamonds (~4.00–4.50 ct); chain length 41 cm, pendant drop 10.2 cm, total weight 38.1 g.

Another retailer reports a variant in 18K/14K gold, total diamond weight approx. 2.50 ct, pendant size 5 × 1.5 cm, chain length approx. 25 cm. This confirms that different configurations exist within the same collection line.

According to Gemologue, the chain also features a subtle Chinese prosperity symbol, making the necklace not only a piece of jewelry but also a design statement.

Reception, Availability & Pop Culture

After its launch in 2007, the Diamond Monkey jewelry quickly became a true statement piece on the red carpet — documented by photo reports from the premiere and later appearances on celebrities such as Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, and Pharrell Williams.

The collection — or its individual pieces — has been available at top luxury destinations like Bergdorf Goodman (NYC) and the Harrods Fine Jewellery Room (London), as noted by Gemologue after meeting the designer in person.

On the secondary market, these necklaces and rings occasionally appear in luxury galleries and high-end retailers like 1stDibs and boutique vintage shops, as well as occasionally at online auctions (e.g. Christie’s — “see / hear / speak no evil” variants).
While the specifications (diamond weight, gold alloys, chain lengths) may vary between pieces, the motif and design language remain instantly recognizable.

Prices of the Necklace and Individual Pendants 💎

The world of Lorraine Schwartz luxury jewelry is not only about exceptional design but also remarkable market value.
The Diamond Monkey Necklace — in its full version with three diamond monkeys — appears at auctions extremely rarely, and prices vary depending on the model, diamond configuration, and source of sale.

Highest confirmed price for the complete necklace 🐒🐒🐒

Auction House: Christie’s (Jewels Online)

Date of Sale: December 12, 2019

Model: “Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil, See No Evil” — full necklace

Material: 18K blackened white gold, white and colored diamonds

Price Realized: USD 3,750 (approx. €3,450 in 2019)