Described as an "Artiste Extraordinaire" with a passion for 18th-century France, Count Alexander von Beregshasy strives to re-create this romantic period in all his art. Proud of his Austro-Hungarian heritage, the Count can trace his lineage back to the year 800.

His great-grandmother was a von Hohenzollern and his mother is the Baroness Ilse Renate von Beregshasy. She encouraged his pride of lineage by introducing him to the splendour and beauty of a bygone world of European Empires. The Baroness enthusiastically guided a young Alexander through the royal apartments of many of the castles and palaces of Central Europe. Count Alexander's privileged upbringing allowed him to be educated in four countries: America, Hong Kong, Austria and England.

"For as long as I can remember I have been attracted to anything that glitters and sparkles," the Count says. "But it was my Grandmother, a costume designer for the Opera House in Linz, Austria, that my passion for costumes comes from. I would like to bring back some of the lost romantic beauty and glamour, to give people a little sparkle in their modern lives."

Count Alexander discovered his soul desire and passion of re-creating famous Royal Crown Jewels being the last apprentice of The Royal Crown Jeweller in London, Mr. R. Robertson, 23 years ago. Mr. Robertson was one of the last jewellers in a dying profession, specializing in copying the Royal Crown Jewels in The Tower of London, so that they may be used for exhibition in museums around the world, and also for film and television work. The workshop where Count Alexander learned how to make crowns, tiaras and other fine jewels was not unlike a jeweller's workshop in the 18th century. It was a tiny attic in a Georgian carriage house in North London, covered in dust and very gloomy with only one light bulb hanging from the ceiling. A truly romantic start indeed for the famous jewel collection of Count Alexander.

Count Alexander's passion is expressed through every aspect of his own careful personal appearance. He is dressed in early 19th century fashion custom made by couturier Olivia Barnard-Firth. She is well known for her flamboyant and highly detailed designs for both men and women. "Count Alexander is the perfect model for my creations. He is 6 foot 6 inches tall and is every inch a charming gentleman from the Old World." Completing his romantic image, the Count wears his trademark "Count Alexander Diamond" cravat pendant made from a 713-carat Russian cubic zirconia pear-shaped stone. And finally, two Russian cubic zirconia rings and of course his family crest ring.