Who is Jessica McCormack?
Jessica McCormack is a distinguished jewelry designer renowned for her contemporary diamond creations that seamlessly blend traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. Born on September 8, 1989, in Hamilton, New Zealand, she was raised in Christchurch, where her father, John McCormack, operated an auction house. This environment, rich in art and antiques, profoundly influenced her design sensibilities, fostering an early appreciation for unique and timeless objects.
In pursuit of her passion for jewelry, McCormack relocated to London and began her career with an internship in Sotheby’s jewelry department. This experience deepened her understanding of antique jewelry styles and traditional techniques, laying the foundation for her distinctive approach to design.
In 2008, at the age of 19, she launched her eponymous brand with the vision of creating diamond jewelry that is both luxurious and suitable for everyday wear. Her innovative designs quickly garnered attention, blending the elegance of antique craftsmanship with contemporary style.
A hallmark of McCormack’s work is her revival of Georgian-era techniques, such as the Georgian cut-down setting, where the diamond is encased in a button shape with metal set around its edge. This method, traditionally done in silver, adds a unique depth and character to her pieces. Additionally, she employs the Georgian practice of layering metals—backing silver with yellow gold—to prevent tarnishing and add warmth to her creations. These meticulous, handcrafted techniques ensure that each piece is unique and timeless.
Operating from a five-story townhouse in London’s Mayfair district, McCormack has established a space that reflects her brand’s identity. The townhouse houses her workshop, design studio, and showcases her collections amidst contemporary art and antiques, offering clients an intimate and personalized shopping experience. This setting underscores her commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and the creation of modern heirlooms.
McCormack’s creations have attracted a global clientele, including celebrities and fashion icons. Her designs have been worn by figures such as Victoria Beckham, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle. Notably, in January 2025, actress Zendaya was reported to have received a 5.02-carat East West Cushion Diamond Button Back Ring from McCormack as an engagement ring from actor Tom Holland.
Beyond her ready-to-wear collections, McCormack offers bespoke services, creating personalized pieces that resonate with individual clients. Her innovative “Party Jacket” concept allows clients to enhance existing jewels by adding removable surrounds, providing versatility and a fresh perspective on cherished items. This bespoke approach has been particularly appealing to clients seeking unique expressions of personal style.
By 2023, McCormack’s business achieved nearly £30 million in sales, reflecting her brand’s significant growth and the increasing demand for her designs. With aspirations to reach £100 million in sales in the near future, she continues to expand her product offerings and market reach, solidifying her status as a leading figure in contemporary jewelry design.
In summary, Jessica McCormack‘s journey from a New Zealand upbringing surrounded by art and antiques to becoming a celebrated London-based jeweler is marked by her dedication to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Her creations, characterized by their timeless elegance and wearability, have redefined diamond jewelry for the contemporary woman, making her pieces cherished heirlooms for generations to come.
More about Zendaya’s engagement ring
Zendaya’s engagement ring, a gift from actor Tom Holland, is a 5.02-carat cushion-cut diamond set in an east-west orientation, designed by British jeweler Jessica McCormack.
The ring’s distinctive horizontal setting offers a modern twist on traditional engagement rings, a style that has gained popularity for its unique and contemporary appeal. The ring is estimated to be worth between $120,000 and $200,000. Zendaya publicly showcased the ring at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, sparking significant interest and admiration.
Zendaya’s engagement ring
