The Collectors: Laura Freedman
Freedman turned her passion for vintage jewelry into the multi-brand boutique Broken English in Los Angeles
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.”
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.”
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.”
A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2023 Late Fall Issue under the headline “The Collectors.” Subscribe to the magazine.