Who was Gerard Rene?
Photo of Gerard Rene, Circa 1950
Photo of Viola (Rene) Henrius, daughter of Gerard Rene, Circa 1974
His Legacy
Gerard Rene was a loving and devoted husband and father born and raised in 1920s Jeremie, Haiti. He was the grandfather of Valdine Henrius-Whitter, the owner and founder of Gerard Rene Jewelry. Gerard Rene lived a modest life administering medication to the sick and working at an electrical company towards the end of his life. He also owned his own boutique in Jeremie, Haiti selling goods and supplies to the community.
Gerard Rene loved his family and spoiled his children to the best of his ability. His dream was to make a better life for himself and his family and one day own a boutique in the United States, however he passed away before his dream was ever realized.
Gerard Rene's legacy lives on through his children, grand children and the Gerard Rene jewelry brand. With Gerard Rene jewelry you can turn your designs into heirlooms with superior quality, conflict-free gems and metals that can be passed down for generations.
Photo of Valdine Henrius Whitter, granddaughter of Gerard Rene
Valdine Henrius-Whitter, Owner and Founder of Gerard Rene
Owner and Founder
My name is Valdine Henrius-Whitter, and I am the Owner and Founder of Gerard Rene. Inspired by my family’s legacy and an unwavering commitment to luxury, Gerard Rene Jewelry offers unique, handcrafted designs that empower women and celebrate their individuality.
My love for jewelry and design has led me to discover my new passion in life, which I have lovingly named after my late grandfather. As someone who has redesigned my engagement ring three times, designed beautiful and unique pieces for others, and has had a passion for jewelry since childhood, I know what it's like to want to wear one-of-a-kind exquisite jewelry that everyone can admire.
I take seriously the chance to create exclusive art jewelry alongside custom engagement rings and upgrades, pieces that you will wear for a lifetime and proudly pass down from generation to generation.
From sketching your perfect engagement ring upgrade to crafting matching jewelry pieces to complement your new wedding jewelry set, I bring the same artistry and craftsmanship to all my creations, whether it’s a bespoke engagement ring upgrade or a piece of wearable sculpture. I will provide you with a unique luxury experience where you are fully involved in every step of the process, and my undivided attention is always given to you.
Click the Video to Learn More
About Gerard Rene Jewelry
Your Unique and Empowering Journey Begins Here
In a world where women often feel lost amidst mass-produced jewelry, there exists a story of empowerment, individuality, and exclusivity. This is the story of women who seek more than just a ring; they desire a unique, exceptional, one-of-a-kind handcrafted piece that tells their story and creates their legacy. These women are not just consumers; they are connoisseurs of style, yearning for distinction, elegance, and something truly exclusive that resonates with their essence.
Driving Forces
· Women: The heart of our brand, each woman is a unique canvas of experiences and dreams, deserving of jewelry that mirrors their individuality, empowers their journey, and elevates their self-expression.
· Retail Jewelry Stores: Traditional outlets often fail to offer the luxury, exclusivity, and fine detail that our clients demand.
· Gerard Rene: Our unwavering commitment to bespoke, luxurious designs and exceptional craftsmanship, including exclusive, one-of-a-kind pieces such as engagement rings, wedding rings, upgrades, and art jewelry.
The Current Challenge
Too many women find themselves endlessly browsing online retail jewelry websites, confronted by a sea of generic, mass-produced options. The lack of personalization, exclusivity, and artistry leaves them feeling frustrated, as their personal style remains unexpressed and their individuality overlooked. They long for jewelry that reflects their distinctive taste and sets them apart from the ordinary.
Our Vision for Change
We envision a world where, after wearing our jewelry, women transform into confident individuals who proudly showcase their unique style. With each exquisite, personalized, and exclusive piece—whether it’s a bespoke engagement ring, a custom upgrade, or a one-of-a-kind piece of art jewelry—they will experience the luxury of owning a creation that reflects their individuality, empowers their journey, and the elevated elegance they deserve. Additionally, through each piece, they will carry forward their own legacy and heritage, ensuring that these creations are not just adornments but precious family heirlooms.
The Character We Embody
· Bespoke & Exclusive: Every piece is meticulously tailored to each woman's desires and personality, ensuring the highest level of luxury, exclusivity, and distinction.
· Empowerment: We are committed to empowering women, offering them the opportunity to express their individuality through custom, handcrafted jewelry that celebrates their unique milestones and personal stories.
· Attention to Detail: Each creation is crafted with the utmost care and precision, ensuring it is not only a piece of jewelry but a unique work of art that embodies exclusivity.
· Legacy & Heritage: Our jewelry is designed to honor the past while looking toward the future. Each piece carries the values of our founder’s family legacy, serving as a lasting tribute that can be passed down through generations.
· Luxury & Elegance: We believe in offering more than just a piece of jewelry—each creation is an exclusive luxury experience that embodies timeless beauty and sophistication.
· Timeless Craftsmanship: Designs that transcend trends, created with the finest materials and exceptional artistry that ensure lasting beauty and luxury.
· High-Quality Materials: Only the finest ethically sourced materials, including conflict-free gems, are used in the creation of our jewelry.
· Exceptional Craftsmanship: A commitment to delivering unparalleled quality in every piece, ensuring that each creation is not only a treasure but an heirloom to be passed down.
· Special Attention & Adoration: Every client receives personalized care, ensuring an unparalleled luxury experience where you are treated with the exclusivity and respect you deserve.
Click Here to Join Us in This Transformative Journey
At Gerard Rene, we invite you to step into a narrative where your individuality shines through exclusive, exquisite jewelry—whether a bespoke engagement ring, wedding ring, or a piece of art jewelry. Let us help you tell your story—one handcrafted, luxurious, artistic ring at a time.
Our client, Theresa, wanted a 7 stone ring to represent each member of her family. This was the original sketch sent to her.
After she approved of the sketch, this CAD rendering was sent to her for further review and approval.
This is Theresa’s 7 Stone Bezel Set ring, after completion and before delivery.
She was thrilled with her new ring! Here is her photo and Google Review.
Our Commitment
In addition to providing ethical and eco-friendly diamonds and gems, a portion of every Gerard Rene purchase goes towards a true and genuine purpose. Each purchase goes back to Gerard Rene's country of origin, Haiti, and supports a child by providing one year of school tuition and one meal a day. Together with Gerard Rene, you can make a difference.
Designed by you. Created for you.
-
Design it.
Dreaming of luxury custom jewelry? Whether it's a new design or a twist on our portfolio pieces, Gerard Rene has you covered. Book an appointment, share your ideas, and we'll chat about styles and budgets. We're here to make your custom-designed jewelry a reality. Experience luxury designed just for you at Gerard Rene.
-
Select it.
Pick your favorite lab-grown diamond, moissanite, or gemstone for your dream design. We'll show you a model to check before we cut and polish the stones. You'll see pictures or videos of the stones before we set them. Once you're happy, we'll send you a bill and start making your designer-inspired jewelry. At Gerard Rene, we're here to make your dream jewelry a reality.
-
Enjoy it.
When your custom diamond jewelry y is ready, we'll show you pictures before sending it. Tell us how you liked your experience and leave a review!