Episode Summary: Sybil and David Yurman – The Artists Who Built an Empire

In this compelling episode of "The Grand Tourist with Dan Rubinstein," host Dan Rubinstein sits down with Sybil and David Yurman, the dynamic duo behind the renowned American jewelry brand David Yurman. Released on March 5, 2025, this episode provides an in-depth look into their artistic beginnings, entrepreneurial journey, and the enduring passion that has fueled their success over the decades.

Early Life and Artistic Foundations

David Yurman opens up about his challenging childhood in the Bronx, contrasting sharply with Sybil's more positive experiences. He shares:

“There were gangs. Someone much older than me would approach me and say, what gang do you belong to? Do you belong to the Fordham Baldies or the Soup Gang? And I didn't know what they were talking about.”
(00:25)

In contrast, Sybil Yurman reminisces about the camaraderie and freedom she felt growing up:

“It was freedom. You could play, go, be in the street in the summertime if it was hot. It was a great sense of camaraderie and safety for me.”
(02:49)

Meeting and Partnership

Their paths converged at the studio of sculptor Hans van der Bovenkamp in the late 1960s. Sybil recounts her first encounter:

“I was being shown around the house, and there was someone sleeping on the floor in the kitchen. I asked, what's that person doing? He said, it's Jack Kerouac. Wow, I had read on the Road, and it was like, really?”
(14:21)

David adds a vivid description of Sybil’s entrance:

“She was wearing alligator loafers... she was walking across the floor. And it was sounding like the good, the bad and the ugly.”
(21:21)

Their immediate connection blossomed into a lifelong romantic and professional partnership, marked by mutual respect and shared artistic vision.

Transition to Craft and Business Success

Originally focused on crafting belt buckles, David discusses their early business ventures:

“We were making belt buckles... before we got into the jewelry part. I had a three million dollar business.”
(38:22)

Sybil emphasizes their initial goal wasn’t to build a company but to sustain their creativity:

“The objective was to be able to be creative, to design things, to have fun and sustain ourselves.”
(38:03)

A turning point came when they were invited to showcase their work at a major jewelry show in New York City. David recounts their pivotal meeting with Saks Fifth Avenue:

“They are Saks Fifth Avenue. I'm the buyer... He said, I'm going to give you the money.”
(42:14)

This moment signified their entry into the mainstream luxury market, setting the stage for their expansive growth.

Navigating the Luxury Market and Brand Evolution

As their business grew, David reflects on the complexities of scaling:

“We have to prepare six months out, two years. It's a big business.”
(62:07)

Sybil shares her vision for maintaining customer joy and pleasure:

“I hope that people were still experiencing our jewelry with the same joy and pleasure.”
(68:13)

Their ability to blend creative artistry with robust business strategies has been key to their enduring success.

Creative Process and Technological Integration

David discusses the integration of technology into their creative process:

“We can take models in 3D CAD computer and adjust them in a way that you can almost feel like you're manipulating clay.”
(59:15)

Despite embracing modern techniques, they remain committed to traditional craftsmanship, ensuring each piece retains its unique artistic essence.

Personal Anecdotes and Notable Figures

The episode is rich with personal stories, including Sybil's encounter with Jack Kerouac and David's adventurous hitchhiking experiences. David also shares his admiration for influential figures like Kate Moss:

“She's unbelievably empathic, compassionate, funny, outrageous... She's connected.”
(54:59)

These anecdotes humanize the Yurmans, highlighting their deep connections within the artistic and cultural spheres.

Legacy and Future Aspirations

In their concluding remarks, David underscores the importance of their partnership:

“Collaboration is messy... underneath it, you love each other. We never go to sleep angry.”
(57:00)

Sybil adds her hopes for the future:

“I hope that people were still experiencing our jewelry with the same joy and pleasure.”
(68:13)

Their enduring commitment to creativity and mutual support remains the cornerstone of their legacy.

Notable Quotes

• David Yurman on the essence of their partnership:

  “The only thing that kept us together and focused was the love and passion of art. It's something that fed us.”
  (00:00)

• Sybil Yurman on her early artistic support:

  “My father gave me paints and canvases, and I would paint and sell my pictures to run away from home.”
  (06:57)

• David Yurman on embracing challenges:

  “If you can find something that you love, you never work a day in your life. Why would I stop doing something that I love?”
  (57:00)

Conclusion

Dan Rubinstein masterfully unravels the inspiring journey of Sybil and David Yurman, showcasing their evolution from passionate artists to influential luxury jewelry magnates. Their story is a testament to the power of love, creativity, and resilience in building a lasting legacy. Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for their artistry and the harmonious partnership that has defined their success.

Connect with The Grand Tourist:

• Website: thegrandtourist.net
• Newsletter: sign up here
• Instagram: @DanRubinstein
• Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.

Thank you to Sybil and David Yurman, and to everyone at Phaidon for their contributions to this episode.