Eyewear that’s more than just eye-catching

Affluent aristocrats in Renaissance times didn’t wear sunglasses but if they had, they would have looked something like the glittering, gem-set eyewear from Francis de Lara. Designed by John-Paul Pietrus and handmade in Florence, each pair takes a minimum of 250 hours to craft, using gold-plated silver set with precious stones, diamonds, 18k gold  and even wood. The flamboyantly bejewelled structures that wrap around the head, featuring Renaissance-inspired snakes, apples and teardrops are statement jewellery that demands attention. The fine jewellery collection mirrors these designs for everyday. Pietrus is also a fashion photographer who has photographed Naomi Campbell, Eva Herzigova and Erin O’Connor amongst others.