Its cable twists are as iconic as Chanel’s gardenias or Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato weave. And now it’s easier than ever for San Antonio shoppers to add David Yurman’s distinctive style to their collections.
On January 11, the upscale jeweler opened its first Alamo City boutique in the Shops of La Cantera. Modeled after the brand’s 57th Street flagship in Manhattan, the 2,200-square-foot store is the fifth David Yurman outpost in Texas.
Although his name is now synonymous with fine jewelry, David Yurman first became interested in metalwork as a sculptor — helping to create the railings of Phillip Johnson’s David H. Koch Theater, among other public works. A chance meeting with painter Sybil Kleinrock propelled him to the pantheon of American fashion.
The couple founded Putnam Art Works in the early ‘70s, making a name for themselves with sculptural jewelry. After marrying in 1979, they founded the David Yurman company. Though the business carried David’s name, Sybil Yurman was an equal part of its DNA — working on all aspects of the business and helping the brand establish a foothold in the then-emerging American designer jewelry category.
Although David and Sybil are no longer involved in day-to-day operations, the brand is still a family affair. Today, son Evan Yurman acts as the president and chief creative officer, continuing his parents’ commitment to altruism while introducing youthful designs like a tangerine rubber cable bracelet with LGBTQIA-plus nonprofit the Trevor Project, and Cable edge, a sustainable line made of recycled silver and gold.
Notwithstanding the modernization, the David Yurman label still retains its timeless elegance. According to a release, the San Antonio storefront welcomes guests with a fluted granite façade while the interior is upholstered in luxe fabric offset with custom Italian millwork. A private viewing room is decorated with midcentury modern furnishings inspired by the family’s private collection.
The luxe retail experience is at peace with what is shaping up to be one of Texas’ toniest shopping centers. Already home to coveted brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co., the center will soon be adding plush boutiques from Louis Vuitton Men’s, Christian Dior, and Lucchese.
