Matthew Harris from Mateo, NY

The Journey of Matthew Harris and Mateo New York: Redefining Fine Jewelry

A Vision Born from Personal Need

Matthew Harris embarked on his journey with Mateo New York driven by a simple yet profound desire: to create exceptional personal jewelry. “I wanted great personal jewelry,” he states, reflecting the essence of his brand. This vision was not merely about aesthetics; it was rooted in a deeper cultural appreciation for adornment, a value instilled in him by his Jamaican heritage.

Cultural Roots and Family Influence

Growing up in a family that revered self-adornment, Harris was influenced by his mother’s wisdom: “Have good jewelry and if something goes wrong, you go and sell it.” This pragmatic approach to jewelry, intertwined with cultural significance, shaped his perspective on what jewelry should represent—value, beauty, and personal connection. Harris’s upbringing in Jamaica instilled in him a sense of creativity and resilience, qualities that continue to inspire his work today.

From Passion Projects to Celebrity Recognition

Initially, Harris’s focus was not on building a brand but on crafting pieces that he and his friends would cherish. A pivotal moment came when Rihanna donned one of his chunky razor necklaces, catapulting Mateo New York into the spotlight. This unexpected endorsement opened doors to a wider audience, attracting both celebrities and buyers who were eager to embrace his unique designs.

The Evolution of Mateo New York

Launched in 2009, Mateo New York has carved a niche in the fine jewelry market, offering modern, everyday pieces that blend luxury with approachability. Signature items like diamond initial pendants, casual pearls, and colorful semiprecious stones have become staples in the collections. Harris emphasizes the importance of listening to customer feedback, stating, “We’re not in the clouds.” For Spring 2026, he plans to introduce three new collections, including a baroque pearl line that has consistently been a bestseller.

A Commitment to Craftsmanship

Harris’s journey as a jeweler began in New York’s Diamond District, where he was self-taught. Recently, he took a significant step in his education by enrolling at L’Ecole School of Jewelry Arts in Paris, an institution backed by Van Cleef & Arpels. This experience has enriched his creative process, allowing him to return to the fundamentals of jewelry making through gouache drawings. “Everyone is becoming so digital; it was nice to go back to the core of jewelry making,” he reflects.

Expanding the Brand’s Horizons

While jewelry remains the cornerstone of Mateo New York, Harris has broadened his creative scope to include fragrances, interior design projects, handbags, and candles. “It all correlates with the brand,” he explains, showcasing his desire to create a holistic lifestyle experience. Splitting his time between Texas, Portugal, and Jamaica, he ensures that his jewelry is still crafted in New York City by the same artisans he has collaborated with since the brand’s inception.

Global Ambitions and Future Projects

In 2022, Harris opened a store in Lisbon, marking a significant step in his global retail expansion, with New York next on his radar. Additionally, he is developing Villa Mateo in Jamaica, envisioned as a living expression of his brand—a destination that embodies his creative ethos and cultural roots.

A Mission of Approachability and Cherished Value

Despite his expanding empire, Harris remains committed to his mission: to create pieces that are approachable and cherished. He believes that fine jewelry should be accessible to everyone, encouraging customers to self-purchase rather than relegating items to a jewelry box. “Good fine jewelry is something for everyone,” he insists, advising buyers to start with something personal that they will wear daily. As collections grow, he suggests considering more significant investments, always emphasizing the importance of genuine love for the piece.

Embracing the Present

Harris’s philosophy is clear: “We cannot take it to the grave, so let us enjoy it now.” This mantra encapsulates his approach to jewelry and life, urging individuals to celebrate their choices and embrace the beauty of the present moment. Through Mateo New York, Matthew Harris continues to redefine what fine jewelry means, making it a personal and cherished part of everyday life.