The art of Portuguese jewellers in Porto

Since time immemorial, animals that are part of our world have captured our imagination, and have influenced several art forms. This influence is particularly true of contemporary jewellery, jewellery inspired by animals that has helped reshape the art of Portuguese jewellers. The range is limitless, from gold, to silver and to precious gems, Portuguese jeweller Luíz Ferreira has created art pieces inspired in the animal kingdom who travelled the world. And still do!

Amongst the most famous clients are Queen Elisabeth II, former US President Nixon and Jacqueline Onassis.

It all started with a silver articulated swan, then deer, horses, bulls, elephants, giraffes, squirrels, rabbits, rhinos, lobsters, fishes, ostriches, cocks, and many other, handmade, crafted in gold, silver and other materials, such as precious stones, corals, and marbles.

It is almost a goldsmith Noah's Ark, as stated by David Ferreira, "my father has recreated almost all of nature's species".

Luiz Ferreira was the master goldsmith behind the "Bichos Collection" [Animal's collection, free translation], which has gained international recognition. Former US President Richard Nixon bought an ostrich, the former US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis purchased a frog, Princess Margaret of England was so enraptured by a piece swan shaped that she made the purchase even before it was concluded. 

The Duke of Windsor chose two chimeras, the Duchess of Alba has assembled her own animal collection, a Trojan horse included.

David Ferreira, son of Luiz Ferreira, states that the client portfolio includes names such as the Spanish King Juan Carlos, the Fado Singer Amália Rodrigues, the painter Vieira da Silva or the Brazilian plastic surgeon Ivo Pintanguy.

Portuguese jewellery has found a passionate art form, handcrafted in Porto.