The House That Fred Built

FRED, the jewellery Maison that Fred Samuel created, pays tribute to his philosophy of life, light, and an unmistakable bold aesthetic in the art and pioneering craft of precious gems.

- ALLYSON KLASS

Capturing the essence of light and joy, FRED was created out of the artistic vision of founder Fred Samuel, to stand out in the world of niche jewellery-making. Its incredible story begins with the journey of Samuel, whose life was as rich in experience as the gems he would come to craft.

Born in 1908 to French parents, who had emigrated to Argentina after the French defeat in 1870, Samuel grew up in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires. Influenced from a young age by his jeweller father, and his uncle, a gemstone dealer, Samuel’s destiny was irrevocably entwined with the allure of jewellery from the outset: “I knew that the sparkle of the stones I loved so much—and which truly thrilled me—would help me on my path in this world.”

At 16, Samuel set sail for France, where he trained in the jewellery industry with the Worms company as a trader in precious stones and pearls. In 1936, at age 28, Samuel established his eponymous boutique on Rue Royale in Paris—a place where his passion, optimism, and resilience would reflect in his creations.