Paul Flato 18k Gold Textured Link Necklace, 1960s

Paul Flato was a Texas-born jeweler who built an international reputation during the 1930s and 1940s, a period when fine jewelry was becoming more expressive and personal. After opening his New York salon, Flato quickly attracted a devoted following that included artists, socialites, and Hollywood figures. His designs stood apart from the formality of earlier eras. He favored bold proportions, playful motifs, and unexpected combinations of materials, while still working in platinum and high-karat gold. Rather than following strict trends, Flato created pieces that felt modern, witty, and self-assured. His work helped bridge the refined craftsmanship of early 20th-century jewelry with a more relaxed, individual style that felt distinctly American. Paul Flato’s jewelry remains sought after because it balances personality with excellent workmanship. His pieces are instantly recognizable for their strong forms and confident use of color and texture, yet they are easy to wear and feel purposeful rather than decorative for decoration’s sake. Collectors and style-conscious buyers are drawn to Flato designs for their originality and sense of character. Each piece feels intentional and expressive, offering visual interest without relying on excess ornament. Today, signed Flato jewelry appeals to those who value design-led vintage gold pieces that still feel relevant, wearable, and unmistakably distinctive.