Lee Brevard, 45; Jewelry Designer Had Celebrity Clientele

Jewelry designer Lee Brevard, 45, was found dead at a friend’s house in Hollywood on Sunday. The cause of death, according to the Los Angeles County coroner’s office, is unknown. Autopsy and toxicology test results are pending.

Brevard, who started his career as a painter, attracted a loyal following with his unconventional combinations of metals and use of semiprecious stones. In recent years, the jewelry he created in his Venice studio appeared in scores of fashion magazines and was worn by many of Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses, from Elizabeth Taylor--a longtime client--to Heather Locklear.

“He was the first jewelry designer to get into the smaller is better idea,” said Joan Kanner, senior vice president and fashion director at Neiman Marcus, which sold his designs. “He took great pride in what he did and he was thrilled to see people from all walks of life wearing his pieces. He’s going to be sorely missed.”

Survivors include his father, Claire Brevard, a brother, John Brevard, and sister, Patty Hall.