Phillip Gavriel vs. David Yurman: Which brand should you buy?

Phillip Gavriel offers handcrafted, artisanal jewelry with a contemporary, bohemian feel at a more accessible luxury price point. In contrast, David Yurman is a globally recognized high-end brand known for its iconic, investment-quality pieces and signature cable motif, which command a higher premium.

Let's examine the details of each brand to help you choose the right one for your jewelry collection.

Phillip Gavriel: Artisanal & Contemporary Elegance

Phillip Gavriel focuses on creating unique, handcrafted pieces that merge modern style with timeless design. The brand appeals to individuals who gravitate towards artistic, detailed jewelry that feels personal and distinctive. Rather than relying on a single iconic motif, Phillip Gavriel's collections feature a variety of intricate designs, making it a brand for those who value individuality over widespread name recognition.

• Product mix: A focused collection of rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, all featuring detailed craftsmanship. The brand is well-known for its Woven and Popcorn collections.
• Price point: Most pieces are in the $200 to $2,000 range, offering an entry into the luxury market that doesn’t require a major investment. This makes it ideal for building a collection of fine jewelry.
• Quality & Materials: Utilizes sterling silver, gold vermeil, and an array of semi-precious stones. The emphasis is on the artisanal quality and unique asymmetric design details you find on their pendants, rings, and bracelets. They even launched 18k and diamonds pieces under its high jewelry collection.
• Style & Aesthetic: The overall look is contemporary and bohemian-chic. These versatile pieces can be styled for everyday wear or special occasions, appealing to a customer with a fashion-forward, artistic sensibility.
• Sizing/Fit: Many bracelets and rings have flexible or slightly adjustable designs, prioritizing comfort and a forgiving fit for online shoppers.

Phillip Gavriel is an excellent choice for shoppers who want finely crafted, artistic jewelry with a unique character at a more approachable luxury price.

Shop Phillip Gavriel: phillipgavriel.com

David Yurman: Iconic Luxury & Timeless Design

David Yurman is a powerhouse in the luxury jewelry world, instantly recognizable for its signature cable motif - the helix design that is woven into many of its pieces. Founded in 1980 by a husband-and-wife team of artists, the brand blends art, fashion, and fine jewelry. It’s a status symbol worn by individuals who appreciate its bold, sculptural aesthetic and proven brand heritage.

• Product mix: An extensive selection of rings, bracelets, charms, necklaces, earrings, and watches for both men and women. The Cable Bracelet is its most famous product line.
• Price point: Prices start around $300 for simpler silver pieces and can quickly climb into the many thousands for items with gold, diamonds, or exotic gemstones.
• Quality & Materials: Known for its substantial use of sterling silver, often oxidized to create depth, as well as 18k gold, platinum, and high-quality precious gemstones. The pieces feel weighty, durable, and crafted to last a lifetime.
• Style & Aesthetic: Classic luxury meets modern sculpture. Designs are bold and sophisticated, centered around the iconic cable design. It’s elegant and timeless, making a statement that is both recognizable and refined.
• Sizing/Fit: Sizing is more traditional and standardized, with detailed guides available online. Many pieces, especially bracelets, come in specific millimeter widths and circumferences for a precise fit.

With its iconic branding and investment-grade quality, David Yurman is for the buyer seeking timeless heritage jewelry that makes a definitive statement.

Shop David Yurman: davidyurman.com

Phillip Gavriel vs. David Yurman Comparison

Price Comparison

There is a clear distinction in price between the two brands. Phillip Gavriel generally occupies a sweet spot between $200 and $2,000, making it easier to purchase multiple pieces or invest in a first piece of fine jewelry. This accessible luxury pricing makes it appealing to a wider audience.

David Yurman's entry point is higher, with most popular silver pieces starting around $300-$500 and quickly escalating. Gold and gemstone collections often cost several thousand dollars. You are paying not just for materials but for the iconic brand name, established heritage, and recognized design.

Quality & Materials

Both brands produce high-quality jewelry designed for longevity. Phillip Gavriel's focus is on artisanal charm, using sterling silver and gold vermeil as a canvas for intricate details and semi-precious stones. The craftsmanship feels personal and unique to each piece.

David Yurman is synonymous with substantial, durable construction. The weight and solidity of its sterling silver and gold are a key part of the experience. The brand’s innovative use of mixed metals and meticulous stone settings position its pieces as lasting investments.

Style & Aesthetic

Stylistically, the brands serve different tastes. Phillip Gavriel is for someone with a contemporary, layered, romantic, or bohemian style. The designs feel more individualistic and artistic, as they are not defined by a single motif. They blend easily with other jewelry and are designed for everyday self-expression.

David Yurman is for the classic luxury consumer. The famous Cable Bracelet is a clear status symbol, carrying an immediate sense of prestige. The aesthetic is bold, structured, and sophisticated, perfect for anyone who wants their jewelry to be instantly recognizable and timeless.

Shopping Experience

Shopping with Phillip Gavriel, primarily through its website or select boutiques, feels more personalized. There is a strong emphasis on the story behind the collections and the craftsmanship of each item. This direct-to-consumer and boutique model fosters a closer connection to the brand's artistic vision.

David Yurman offers a traditional luxury experience with its own elegant boutiques in major cities and a presence in high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. This wide availability allows customers to see and feel the jewelry in person, receiving a high-touch sales experience from trained associates.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands create beautiful pieces, but they cater to very different priorities and styles.

Choose Phillip Gavriel if:

• You prefer unique, artistic designs that don't look like everyone else's jewelry.
• Your personal style leans contemporary, bohemian, or romantic.
• You want high-quality, handcrafted jewelry at a more accessible price point.
• You enjoy the story and craftsmanship behind a smaller, artistic brand.

Choose David Yurman if:

• You are looking for an iconic, instantly recognizable piece of luxury jewelry.
• You view your jewelry as a long-term investment and appreciate brand heritage.
• Your style is more classic, bold, and sophisticated.
• You value the substantial feel and durability associated with a premier luxury brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Phillip Gavriel or David Yurman cheaper?

Phillip Gavriel is significantly more budget-friendly. Most of its collection is priced between $200 and $2,000, while a classic David Yurman sterling silver cable bracelet typically starts around $400 and goes up from there.

Which has better quality?

Both brands offer excellent quality, but with different focuses. David Yurman is known for a heavy, durable, and luxurious feel with premium materials like 18k gold and precious gems. Phillip Gavriel's quality is evident in its artisanal details, intricate design work, and craftsmanship for its price point using fine materials like sterling silver and gold vermeil.

What is David Yurman's most iconic piece?

The David Yurman Cable Bracelet is hands-down the brand's most iconic and recognizable piece. It's been a foundation of their collections since the early 1980s and is available in countless variations.

Is Phillip Gavriel a luxury brand?

Yes, Phillip Gavriel is considered an accessible luxury or bridge jewelry brand. It uses fine materials and high-quality craftsmanship to offer a premium product at a price point below that of traditional high-luxury brands like David Yurman or Tiffany & Co.

Can you wear David Yurman jewelry every day?

Absolutely. One of the main appeals of David Yurman jewelry, particularly the sterling silver pieces, is its durability. The pieces are built to withstand daily wear, though like all fine jewelry, should be treated with care.

Who are David Yurman's main competitors?

David Yurman competes in the luxury jewelry space with brands like Tiffany & Co., John Hardy, and Ippolita, all of whom offer distinct design aesthetics within a similar premium price category.

Is Phillip Gavriel jewelry worth it?

Yes, Phillip Gavriel is worth it for shoppers who value unique, artistic design and craftsmanship over brand-name recognition. The quality for the price is excellent, offering a way to own distinctive fine jewelry without the high-end luxury markup.

Where can I buy Phillip Gavriel jewelry?

You can buy Phillip Gavriel jewelry directly from their official website, as well as through select independent jewelry boutiques and high-end department stores across North America and the Caribbean.