Lilly Porter Fine Jewelry is a full-service jewelry house that specializes in creating distinctive pieces while incorporating each client’s unique style. Whether a custom engagement ring or sophisticated pair of cuff links, Lilly Porter creates jewelry that empowers families to pass down stories for generations in the form of a bespoke heirloom.
Bess McLean, the founder and visionary behind Lilly Porter, began her jewelry journey over 25 years ago, dealing in loose diamonds and becoming acquainted with the Atlanta jewelry scene.
Mclean had many ideas for these loose diamonds but molding them into wearable pieces presented a challenge. “There is a definite art in knowing how to work with the materials so that you have a functional, wearable piece,” she says. Her transition from loose stones to designing wholly unique pieces inspired Mclean to venture into the profession full time.
McLean’s love for jewelry began in childhood, gazing at her mother’s jewelry during church. “My mother had a pearl ring, and I would hold it and pretend it was a crystal ball during service,” she says. “When we would go to my grandmother’s house, I would go straight to her jewelry box to play with her brooches.” There was one that reminded her of the Road Runner. “I still have the pin,” she adds.
Today, Mclean’s inspiration comes from her love of her family, being among nature and spending time with her beloved pets. “I just adore the idea of legacy in heirloom jewelry,” she says, and she hopes to help her clients immortalize what’s important to them in a piece they can be proud to pass down for years to come. Through her work she has witnessed her clients’ significant life milestones: marriages, births, graduations, retirements and even memorials. “I love people, and my intention is to help others to keep family memories alive,” she says. “Bespoke jewelry can hold such value beyond its price tag.”
One of McLean’s favorite pieces she’s created over the years is a signature monogram pendant, featuring nearly 4 carats of diamonds in white gold. “The design is a creative play on my daughter’s and my initials,” she says. It’s a bold statement piece that incorporates Mclean’s passion, and people often stop to ask her about it.
As a GIA-certified Jewelry Professional with expertise in diamonds and colored gemstones, Mclean works closely with national stylists, such as Sara Mixon from Tootsies in Atlanta, to further enrich her understanding of contemporary styles and preferences.
Lilly Porter Fine Jewelry also performs repairs and appraisals and works with estates to consign or sell antique jewelry. Specializing in quality has led the jewelry house to a variety of projects, from personality pieces for memorable film characters to custom hardware for kitchen cabinets. “We help clients all over the world,” says Mclean. “Our private approach helps our clients feel comfortable expressing themselves.”
The thought of working with a custom jeweler may seem daunting for some, but McLean’s approachable and empathetic nature helps ease concerns. “I’m a good listener,” she says. “I have a knack for making people feel comfortable and helping them open up so they can share their stories.” Her ability to understand her clients’ true desires, work within their budgets and adhere to timelines is why she’s become a sought-after jeweler. She’s also established herself as one of the few jewelers in Atlanta who can and will rework existing pieces.
“Most jewelers won’t work with old materials, but I really like reworking pieces that once belonged to someone special,” Mclean explains. Breathing new life into old jewels and repurposing cherished treasures into bespoke pieces is one of Mclean’s favorite aspects of her vocation. “The joy of seeing a client’s face light up when they can wear a cherished family heirloom is a reward in itself,” she says. Whether looking for an exceptional hand-cut diamond, a rare gemstone or a one-of-a-kind reworked treasure, Lilly Porter offers what no typical jewelry store can in terms of quality and experience.
Custom jewelry is more accessible and affordable than many believe. “Our clients are always happy that we work within their budget, but in general, they usually comment on how they thought it would cost much more than it does,” McLean says. “As with everything, technology has given people more information. People now know to ask about custom jewelry more than they did 15 years ago. I’ve noticed younger couples seeking out custom because they want to use nontraditional materials, like opals or sapphires, and they want something different than a typical solitaire engagement ring.”
When it comes to creating a bespoke piece as a gift, McLean offers practical advice. “Consider the recipient’s style as well as lifestyle. For example, are they athletic, a gardener, an office worker?” she says. “Second, think about what kind of message you want to communicate with the gift. Is it something romantic? Something heartfelt? A family heirloom? A bespoke piece of jewelry is a completely personal piece of jewelry. My advice is to go for it; you will always be looked upon as an amazing gift giver!”
To create a custom piece, McLean works closely with clients from the initial consultation to the final delivery. “In the initial meeting, we cover everything from design preferences to metal choices, style, gemstones and budget,” she explains. A preliminary sketch with dimensions and details is shared with the client, who provides feedback before the final piece is crafted. The entire process typically takes six to eight weeks, depending on the complexity of the design.
Throughout the creation process, McLean sends photographs to clients, keeping them involved and excited about their piece. This transparency allows clients to witness the development of their jewelry, making the experience even more special.
Recently, McLean introduced her daughter, the company’s namesake. “In 2004, when I started this company, I decided to name the business after my daughter, Lilly Porter. I felt that naming the business after my greatest love would always remind me to do my very best, as I would never want anything to reflect poorly on her name,” she says. “Lilly graduated a few years ago from the business school at Georgia Tech; she gives me insight into young professional women’s styles and engagement trends. She has been invaluable with tech support, and in the last few years, she has developed a deeper interest in learning how to work with precious diamonds and gemstones. She has a great eye for detail, and it’s fun to share my knowledge with her and learn from her. She is my legacy and the future of Lilly Porter Fine Jewelry.”
Robin Howard is a freelance writer in Charleston. See more of her work at robinhowardwrites.com.
