Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights:
2. Introduction
3. The Genesis of Mateo New York
4. Craftsmanship Meets Practicality
5. Expansion Beyond Jewelry
6. The Philosophy of Cherished Luxury
7. Community and Cultural Influence
8. Conclusion

Key Highlights:

• Matthew Harris founded Mateo New York in 2009, driven by a desire to create personal jewelry that resonates with authenticity and everyday wear.
• The brand has gained traction and visibility, notably after Rihanna donned one of Harris's designs, significantly elevating its profile among celebrities and consumers.
• Expanding from jewelry to fragrances, handbags, and interior design, Harris maintains a commitment to creating approachable, luxury items that encourage personal expression and everyday use.

Introduction

In a world where jewelry often symbolizes opulence and exclusivity, Matthew Harris is redefining the narrative through his brand, Mateo New York. Established in 2009, the brand has matured into a beacon of modern, everyday fine jewelry that resonates with an extensive audience. Harris's upbringing in a Jamaican family that viewed jewelry as both art and a form of self-expression profoundly influenced his approach to design. He maintains that good jewelry serves not only as adornment but also as an investment that holds familial and personal significance. As Mateo New York expands its offerings and global presence, it continues to honor Harris's ethos: jewelry is meant to be cherished, worn, and enjoyed rather than merely stored away.

The Genesis of Mateo New York

Matthew Harris's journey into the world of fine jewelry began not as a quest for brand supremacy but rather from a genuine need for personal expression. Growing up in Jamaica, where his mother emphasized the value of jewelry as a safeguard and a form of self-adornment, Harris learned early on that beautiful pieces could serve practical and sentimental purposes. “Have good jewelry and if something goes wrong, you go and sell it,” she would say, reflecting a cultural perspective that sees adornment as both beautiful and functional.

Harris’s artistry found a spotlight when international superstar Rihanna wore one of his signature chunky razor necklaces. This pivotal moment not only placed Mateo New York on the radar of high-profile celebrities but also introduced the brand to a wider audience who appreciated its unique blend of modern aesthetics and cultural heritage. With the groundwork laid, Harris pivoted towards creating a product line that blended luxury with everyday functionality.

Craftsmanship Meets Practicality

Since its inception, Mateo New York has embraced a philosophy of "wearable heirlooms." Harris designs fine jewelry collections that are modern yet rooted in timelessness, aiming for pieces that an individual can wear every day. The brand is renowned for its diamond initial pendants, rings, and delicate yet bold pearl accessories. In spring 2026, Mateo New York will introduce three new collections, featuring a baroque pearl line, a gemstone that has historically garnered acclaim as a bestseller. “We listen to our customer here. We’re not in the clouds,” says Harris, emphasizing his commitment to adapting to consumer desires while maintaining the elegance that defines his brand.

Harris began as a self-taught artisan in New York's Diamond District, honing his skills on the bench and absorbing the intricacies of jewelry making. More recently, he returned to a more traditional craft approach by enrolling at L’Ecole School of Jewelry Arts in Paris, where he embraced gouache painting techniques in design. This reconnection with the roots of jewelry-making enriches his creative process, infusing contemporary styles with classic craftsmanship.

Expansion Beyond Jewelry

While jewelry remains the core of Mateo New York, Harris has strategically expanded his creative portfolio to include fragrances, home decor, and even handbags. This holistic approach allows him to present a lifestyle that resonates with the customer’s aspirational vision. Harris explains that each new offering correlates with the brand’s identity, creating a cohesive narrative across all platforms.

Opening a storefront in Lisbon marked a significant milestone in the brand's growth, making fine jewelry accessible to a broader European customer base. Harris’s ambition does not stop there; he plans further expansion into New York's retail scene, amplifying the brand's presence in a market known for its competitive fashion environment. Moreover, he is developing Villa Mateo in Jamaica, which aims to function as both a brand showcase and a communal space that embodies the spirit of Mateo New York.

The Philosophy of Cherished Luxury

At the heart of Mateo New York’s ethos is the appreciation for jewelry that is not merely an investment but a part of everyday life. Harris advocates for "good" fine jewelry that is accessible to a wide demographic. He urges his clientele to consider starting their collection with pieces that resonate personally, suggesting they allocate their budget towards something meaningful they can wear often. “Don’t buy to put in a jewelry box,” he advises, reinforcing the philosophy that jewelry is meant for enjoyment rather than mere possession.

As Harris circles back to the Jamaican perspective instilled in him by his mother, it becomes clear that his brand embodies a call to action for individuals to relish in the beauty of their purchases. Harris emphasizes the importance of understanding value—not solely in monetary terms but in personal fulfillment. His mantra speaks to the transience of life: “We cannot take it to the grave, so let us enjoy it now.”

Community and Cultural Influence

Harris’s Caribbean roots play a significant role in his life and business philosophy. The notion of craftsmanship, inherited from generations before, informs the modernity that defines his creations. “I think whoever makes it from the Caribbean, we learned how to dream on our own,” he reflects, acknowledging the influence of his heritage on his creative output.

His commitment to craftsmanship extends beyond personal expression; it translates into a dedication to supporting local artisans and maintaining high standards of production. By keeping the manufacturing of Mateo New York jewelry in New York City, Harris fosters a community of artisans who share a collective history and vision for quality craftsmanship, further rooting the brand in authenticity.

Conclusion

Matthew Harris has successfully transformed Mateo New York into a distinguished name in finer jewelry that marries accessibility with sophistication. His journey from self-taught artisan to an influential jeweler encapsulates a celebration of both personal and cultural heritage, driven by a desire to create pieces that resonate with individual stories and experiences. The evolution of Mateo New York is more than just a brand story; it reflects a cultural dialogue, a celebration of craftsmanship, and an invitation to enjoy life’s précieuses treasures.

FAQ

What is Mateo New York known for? Mateo New York is recognized for its modern fine jewelry pieces that blend luxury with everyday wearability. The brand specializes in items such as diamond initial pendants, rings, and distinctive pearl jewelry.

Who founded Mateo New York? Matthew Harris founded Mateo New York in 2009, beginning with a vision to create personal jewelry that people would cherish and wear daily.

What inspired Matthew Harris’s design philosophy? Harris’s upbringing in a Jamaican family that valued jewelry as both art and a practical investment shaped his design philosophy. He emphasizes approachable luxury and encourages customers to wear jewelry that holds personal significance.

Where is Mateo New York jewelry made? Mateo New York jewelry is manufactured in New York City, with Harris prioritizing local craftsmanship and maintaining relationships with artisans he has collaborated with since the brand's inception.

What are the brand's future plans? Mateo New York is expanding its reach with new collections, including a baroque pearl line, and plans to grow its retail presence globally, including a new location in New York City and a creative space in Jamaica.