A PARTNERSHIP FORGED IN STYLE

Our collaboration with Brooklyn-based LHN Jewelry began with a closely united vision, a shared appreciation for craftsmanship and the belief that nothing puts a statement on one’s style like a well-chosen accessory.

The Americana Collection, the first Stetson jewelry launch in generations, includes distinctive rings and bracelets handwrought from sterling silver, brass, Kingman turquoise and leather. Classic Western motifs, southwestern elements and nods to Stetson’s unique heritage are seen throughout the collection, which was inspired by the spirit of America.

“I grew up in England,” says Lewis Williams, the founder of LHN, “but was always influenced by Americana.” He began working with metal over two decades ago, taking a course at the prestigious Central Saint Martins before getting his degree at London Guildhall. Relocating to New York, Williams launched LHN, using traditional, time-tested metalsmithing techniques to craft dynamic lines of one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by everything from heraldry in the Middle Ages to 1950s biker gangs.

We visited the LHN studio in Brooklyn, NY, to talk to Williams about his collaboration with Stetson, the inspiration behind the Americana Collection and what goes into making each unique piece.

WHAT INITIALLY DREW YOU TO FOCUS ON MEN’S JEWELRY?

I found that there wasn’t much contemporary men’s jewelry being made which was interesting. I wanted to make something new and dynamic. The collections I design are centered on heritage references and I try to transform these elements into contemporary works of jewelry. I am interested in many different things from tattoo culture to maritime life as well as a whole host of different elements that inspire the work. Introducing these elements into men’s jewelry was something I aspired to do.

HOW ARE THE PIECES CREATED?

We use traditional metalsmithing techniques to create jewelry. These include ancient processes such as carving into wax and casting into brass, silver and gold. Sketches and drawings are created first and then we make each design by hand. The metals are sawed, engraved, hammered and soldered with precision and care. Each creation is unique and made to last.

WHAT MADE THIS COLLABORATION FEEL RIGHT TO YOU? WHAT ASPECT OF THE BRAND RESONATES WITH YOU?

Stetson is an iconic name which immediately conjures up a certain classic sense of Americana. Their deep-rooted history of making quality goods over so many years is an inspiration. The heritage of the brand is something I wanted to contribute to with new creations in the same vein and aesthetic as Stetson.

Hook Leather Bracelet – Brown Leather

HOW DID YOU APPROACH THE DESIGN OF THE COLLECTION? WHAT VISUAL ELEMENTS DID YOU WANT TO INCLUDE?

Taking a dive into the 155-year-old history of Stetson was exciting, and formed the basis of what we wanted to incorporate into the designs. Touchstones of the American Southwest were influential on the collection. We incorporated Americana sensibilities, such as the longhorn, buffalo and timeless motifs such as the horseshoe. One piece features an engraving that reads “Boss of the Plains,” in honor of John B. Stetson.

WHICH PIECE IN THE COLLECTION IS YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE?

The Southwestern Cuff with Kingsman Turquoise gemstones at either end of it is an epic piece that captures all the elements we wanted to portray in this collaboration. The cuff has a substantial width with lots of relief work in the design, but because we gave it a certain curve on the inside, it is incredibly comfortable to wear. I also love this cuff because the brush patina finish we apply to it, gives the cuff an antique feel. Like an old treasure.