The Collectors: Laura Freedman

Freedman turned her passion for vintage jewelry into the multi-brand boutique Broken English in Los Angeles

Person in brown shirt holding jewelry in front of display cases filled with various accessories and decor items.
Laura Freedman. Photo: COURTESY OF BROKEN ENGLISH JEWELRY

When Laura Freedman founded Broken English, her multi-brand jewelry boutique, in Los Angeles in 2006, the vision was to create an extension of her own home and collection. “My personal collection doesn’t deviate too far from what
I curate for the store,” says Freedman, whose incredible trove features everything from antique Georgian and Victorian pieces to modern examples by Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, Marina B, and David Webb.
A go-to source for interesting, unique jewels, Broken English opened its first stand-alone New York store in SoHo this spring. “It’s very personal and that is the magic.”

Person standing in a jewelry store, wearing a brown blouse and jeans, surrounded by displays of necklaces and other jewelry.
Laura Freedman. Photo: COURTESY OF BROKEN ENGLISH JEWELRY
Gold bracelet with intricate design and metallic accents on a white background.
Bulgari Alveare Collection steel cuff in 18K yellow gold from circa 1980. Photo: COURTESY OF BROKEN ENGLISH JEWELRY

Greatest hits: “A Rivière necklace is always a good idea. It can pass down from generation to generation. A beautiful pair of diamond studs is another classic, and a fabulous cocktail ring is a showstopper and a conversation piece. I also love a cuff—whether it’s by Sidney Garber or Elsa Peretti. One on each wrist is even better.”

Dangling earrings with intricate green gemstone design hanging from a gold chain against a textured white background.
Vram earrings. Photo: COURTESY OF BROKEN ENGLISH JEWELRY

Personal philosophy: “I believe jewelry should hold sentimental value and symbolize personal memories and milestones. It’s baked in on a subconscious level. A collection of stories from your life. As you adorn yourself, you’re putting on these symbolic treasures.”

Gold and black geometric ring with diamond accents, featuring interlocking shapes and a modern, elegant design.
David Webb black enamel Tire ring in 18K yellow gold and platinum with diamonds. Photo: COURTESY OF BROKEN ENGLISH JEWELRY
Elegant yellow and green floral earrings on textured gray surface.
Silvia Furmanovich earrings Photo: COURTESY OF BROKEN ENGLISH JEWELRY

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2023 Late Fall Issue under the headline “The Collectors.” Subscribe to the magazine.