Designer Sunny Setton De Poortere reimagines ancient talismans through modern gold jewelry crafted in New York’s Diamond District.
New York–based designer Sunny Setton De Poortere approaches fine jewelry as something deeply personal — objects meant to be worn daily, infused with meaning, and crafted to endure. Through her brand Gazza Ladra, the Franco-American creative explores talismanic symbolism in gold, translating ancient motifs into modern pieces designed for everyday life.
Handmade in Manhattan’s Diamond District, Gazza Ladra’s collections feature 18k gold jewelry alongside charm bracelets rendered in lighter gold compositions. The designer’s commitment to local production reflects both a dedication to craftsmanship and a conscious effort to reduce environmental impact. Symbols such as protective eyes, phoenix pendants, sun-and-moon charms, and recycling motifs reflect a broader philosophy, jewelry as a carrier of personal intention and cultural memory.
Before entering the jewelry world, Setton De Poortere worked in television production, a career defined by long hours and constant travel. Seeking a more grounded creative path after starting a family, she turned toward jewelry design, collaborating with master artisans to bring her ideas to life. The name Gazza Ladra, Italian for “thieving magpie,” captures her instinctive attraction to luminous objects and the way she gathers inspiration from the world around her.
At the heart of the collection lies the idea of jewelry as a talisman. Inspired by her grandmother’s cherished gold chain, worn daily as a symbol of luck and protection, the designer creates pieces that are lightweight yet enduring, meant to accompany the wearer through life’s transitions. Rather than producing seasonal costume jewelry, she focuses on fine metals that can be passed down, reshaped, or renewed over generations.
Beyond design, Gazza Ladra reflects a broader social philosophy. A portion of the brand’s profits supports environmental initiatives and organizations dedicated to empowering women worldwide, reinforcing the belief that luxury objects can carry both aesthetic and ethical value.
Through symbols drawn from history and personal narrative, Gazza Ladra positions modern fine jewelry as something more than adornment, a quiet expression of identity, intention, and timeless craftsmanship.
