David Harris (designer)

David Harris (Weissman) (designer) is an American jewelry designer, particularly noted for his gemstone designs in the shape of grape clusters. His designs have been worn by celebrities Charlize Theron,  Liana Werner-Gray, Rene Russo, Bijoux Phillips, Sarah, Duchess of York, Nancy Pelosi, Tipper Gore, the First Lady of the Philippines,  and the Mondavi Family including Robert Mondavi.

Early life and education
Harris (Weissman) grew up in Roslyn, Long Island, New York. He spent 2 months of each year from 1968–1975 at vacation home in Trelawny, Jamaica, W.I. Harris attended Middle School and Upper School at Portledge School, Locust Valley, NY and graduated from Clark University  in Worcester MA. As a child, David Harris colored Ronzoni macaroni and made a necklace for his mother. She wore it all day, and that’s when this New York-based artist knew which path he’d take. “The smile on my mother’s face that day continues to be my inspiration,” he says, “I’m happiest when I know that my creations make women happy. He also spent time in the Caribbean with natives selling shells and beads. Harris's respect for nature started at an early age and as he grew older he learned from a science teacher how to find pyrite and from a family friend where to search for stones in construction sites. His passion for interesting gemstones and rocks expanded into his desire to create unique jewelry. Harris currently lives on the Upper West Side of Manhattan.

Career
Harris started selling his jewelry in boutiques in NYC & Berkeley, CA in 2002. His Sapphire cluster enhancer and Sapphire cluster earrings were nationally advertised by Saks Fifth Avenue in their March 2004 core catalog. Resembling grape clusters, they were an instant success with famous vineyard families such as the Mondavi's. Harris's work has been featured on the covers of publications including Town and Country, Essence, More, USA Today, Good Housekeeping,  Maxim,  and Prevention.

Company
David Harris Designs are located in over 45 stores including New York City’s Saks Fifth Avenue    throughout USA. Harris maintains a green ideal with his art, if pieces don’t sell, he reuses the material to create new works.

Philanthropy
Harris has worked to assist nonprofits including the Santa Barbara Zoo, East Side Settlement House, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, Fresh Air Fund, Moffitt Cancer Center, Sarasota Ballet, and Greater Pittsburgh YWCA.