Most Exotic Designs of 2012

I am compulsively drawn to jewels that, like a magic carpet, take me out of my reality and whisk me off to a faraway land. Naturally the stuff of fantasy and dreams, jewels that conjure up bazaars, starry nights in the desert or mystical creatures have a potent effect. Here is my selection of fabulously lavish jewels from 2012, with a hint of distant realms that took my breath away. Enjoy the intoxicating allure of some of the most beautiful jewels of the year.

Avakian emerald and ruby rings, which are even set with stones on the inside of the ring.
Panthère de Cartier ring in platinum, with emerald eyes, onyx spots and diamonds. PHOTO: Vincent Wulveryck © Cartier 2011.
Floral cuff bracelet from the Chopard Red Carpet collection in titanium, set with 25.48ct green tsavorites.
Boodles Ocean Tanzanite necklace with a centrepiece of a swirling wave of round-brilliant cut diamonds with a triple drop of further tanzanites at the base. Mounted in platinum. Total weight 334.77ct; diamonds 4.320cts (£67,000).
Amrapali white diamond and Zambian emerald drop earrings.
Azza Fahmy Pharaonic cuff in sterling silver (£2,440).
Wallace Chan Painted Lady brooch from the Fluttery Series, created for the Biennale des Antiquaires 2012 featuring jadeite, diamonds, pink sapphires and rubies.
Wendy Yue and Annoushka's Fantaise 18ct white gold, diamond and sapphire Madgascan Forest pendant.
Sketch for Disney and Chopard's Pocahontas cuff.
Bulgari necklace in yellow gold with turquoises, 318.90ct amethysts , 211.52 emeralds and 7.20ct diamond pave.
Autore Oceania Fish brooch.
The View of Venice Moretto, created in the early 1970s. The hinged torso opens to reveal a miniature cityscape of Venice. Other 'moretti' are named after their owners, such as the Elizabeth Taylor or the Princess Grace.