Like Gold Dust

A little something: Van Cleef's Oiseaux Amoreaux

2012-01-31T17:06:00.002Z

Last week, with things looking a bit overcast ahead of this chilly snap that we're now experiencing (blimey, have you been outside today? Sheesh...) these courting love birds arrived in my inbox. Normally I don't sway too much towards things sent to me by PRs, unless it's for work of course, but this new collection from Van Cleef & Arpels brightened up my day so much that I couldn't resist writing about them.

Crafted with turquoise beads, multi-coloured sapphires (always a favourite of mine), emeralds, tsavorite garnets and set in white and rose gold and studded with round, pear-shaped and baguette-cut diamonds, the Couleurs de Paradis high jewellery collection really is a sight to behold. Hopefully at Basel in March I'll see these little treasures in the flesh. Tweet tweet my lovelies.

A little something: Sugar skull necklace by Basia

2012-01-20T11:50:00.000Z

Those of you who know me will know I have worn a Zoe & Morgan sugar skull style ring every day for a couple of years now. It's a men's ring but with a little re-size it's become a part of me, and I only take it off to sleep (its thorny shank, based on a rose stem, makes it a little spiky when you want to get cosy).

Imagine how thrilled I was then, when last week I met up with my gorgeous work mates from my old stomping ground EC One, and was given this sterling silver beauty by Basia, one of EC One's long-term superstars, who's just got herself a job at Asprey. Complete with ruby eyes and a cheeky smile I haven't taken him off for more than a week. And I don't plan to. Thanks Bas!!

A little something: Rings by Brazen Studios

2012-01-13T17:45:00.002Z

I was having a lovely chat about engagement rings earlier on with Sarah Raffel, the founder and director of Brazen Studios in Glasgow, for a piece I'm writing at work. The subject also touched on commissions, which always intrigue me.

I guess it's just the way that people get so thrilled (even those of us who think we don't have a creative bone in our body) being able to let their imagination run wild a bit. They soon realise that they can help create something beautiful that is all their own. It makes me think: just open your favourite childhood book, watch your favourite film, trawl through your wardrobe, think about that inspiring photograph or colourful piece of art and realise what's 'you'.

All of this is what brings a commission together and is something that Sarah actively encourages, creating visual briefs - mood boards of sorts - for each of her commissioning customers. One came to her with a page of architecture, full of Art Nouveau designs and unusual gothic ceilings and cornices. Bet you can guess which one of these it was. Utterly lovely.

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Marianne ring: green tourmaline ring set in 18ct yellow gold and palladium

Nouveau ring: 18ct red gold, palladium, brown diamond, white diamonds

Margo ring: 18ct red gold, pink sapphires, amethyst

A little something: Shourouk x Swarosvki Crystallized

2012-01-06T17:41:00.000Z

I first saw these necklaces in Grazia a couple of months back, pre-Christmas, and completely fell for them. Swarosvski's collaborations with jewellery and fashion designers keeps getting better and these are right on the money. I loved the combination of neon - something common in Shourouk's crystal and mixed-material embellished pieces - and the floral designs. The fact that the strings look like the kind of laces I used to put into my trainers as a kid makes me smile. The collection is that perfect mix of sparkly and edgy, something to match with an old band t-shirt and beaten up Converse or as a bit of glitter with a simple jersey dress. Dreamy... as are the rest of Shourouk's designs. Check out her Phoenix Alabaster necklace and more gorgeous treats here.

Necklaces by Shourouk for Swarovski
Image courtesy of Swarovski

And she's back in the game! ... With a little something from Mawi

2012-01-06T09:50:00.002Z

Well, well. It's time to get blogging once more. I've been such a bad writer in recent months that really I should hang my head in shame (I'm doing that right now, by the way).

*Hopefully* as a sort of new year's resolution I will endeavour to keep up my blogging better than last year. This will also mean I can quite simply write about all the fabulous things that I love. And there was A LOT in 2011, from new books by Carol Woolton etc., to new launches, exhibitions and an unstoppable force of new designers cropping up not only in London but across the rest of the UK.

Of course I'm easing myself in here, so have some snaps of Mawi's new SS12 collections: Talisman, Hyper Luxe and Pyramid. LOVE.

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Rings, earrings, necklaces, cuffs, Evil Eye pendants from the Hyper Luxe collection.

Triangular and stone drop earrings from the Talisman collection.
Bracelets from the Pyramid collection.

Geometric Jewels on Adorn London

2011-04-18T17:46:00.001+01:00

I wrote this little post up a few week's back, with a keen eye on geometry in jewellery design, as part of Adorn London's geometric fortnight. It was a tough one scouring for my favourite geo jewels and I ended up with a selection of designs from across the board, whether Lua Lua's sterling silver and acrylic bangles or Hannah Martin's Pyramid ring from her new The Man Who Knows Everything collection. I also couldn't resist Faberge's gorgeous new Constructivist earrings and Jacqueline Rabun's amazing Grace ring. Stunning!

Apologies... but here's a Mawi video!

2011-04-11T12:30:00.002+01:00

It has officially been MONTHS since I last wrote. Things have been crazy with house moving, BaselWorld, magazines to get done and dusted and press days. I've also been without internet at home, which as we all know can pretty much put an end to regular blogging. Nevertheless, I'll be back on track in the next few weeks, with lots of things to write about and some photos to get up there. In the meantime, here's a cheeky video of me interviewing the lovely Mawi - albeit more of a quick chat and an unsteady hand on a digital SLR - for Professional Jeweller. Enjoy! Kx

A little something: Katie Rowland's Satori collection

2011-02-18T23:56:00.000Z

Katie Rowland is best known for her fashion-forward, triple finger St.Tropez knuckledusters of 2010 - giant gold plated rings set with hunks of neutral hued quartz. These amazing rings caught many an eye and placed Katie firmly on the fashion jewels map.

For 2011 she's released her debut fine jewellery collection, made in 18ct rose gold and set with unusual diamonds which glitter with a 'cracked glass' appearance. The Satori collection has been designed with a particular Japanese teaching in mind: finding beauty in objects which don't fit the notion of perfection. For many, where a diamond should be inclusion-free, of the rarest white colour and well cut, Katie is turning both that idea and the diamonds themselves on their head, creating alternative fine diamond rings suitable for any savvy jewellery lover.

Poolside Palm Springs jewels on Adorn London

2011-02-16T18:11:00.002Z

This fortnight's Adorn London feature is all about poolside jewels inspired by 1950s Palm Springs. I've got my own little write-up on there, focused on a contemporary Plam Springs look heralded by (you know I love her) Merle O'Grady, Lucy Hutchings and Alexis Bittar this spring/summer. Take a look here... wishing away these wintry months!

A little something: EC One take us around Pebble London

2011-02-15T22:09:00.000Z

Just a quick one tonight - and a chance to see behind the scenes at the treasure trove that is Pebble London. Peter Adler, the gent behind the gorgeous trinkets, necklaces, bangles, earrings and sculptures that make Pebble London what it is, takes EC One's Basia behind-the-scenes, letting his charismatic personality shine through - but of course, not beyond the walls of gemstone necklaces, stacks of abalone shell bangles and tribal jewellery. Un-be-lievable.

A little something: Katie Hillier paperclip necklaces

2011-02-14T20:42:00.000Z

I first spotted these playful necklaces about a year or so ago, following the launch of the now ubiquitous paperclip rabbit necklace. Katie Hillier's irreverent style has seen her designing accessories for everyone from Marc Jacobs to Luella. She's even been involved in Victoria Beckham's new handbag collection (yes, please). I love the little sausage dog pendant, being a huge fan of those little dogs. Now available in silver and with new designs including the tortoise and the hedgehog, I've fallen very much head over heels! <3

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Katie Hillier

Silver and blue topaz hound necklace

18ct gold and champagne diamond bumblebee necklace
18ct gold and navy diamond tortoise necklace

A little something: Disaya SS11 rings

2011-02-05T18:30:00.000Z

Just stumbled across these little beauties on ASOS. Disaya's new collection of jewellery, including this cute, very aptly timed enamelled swan ring and a colourful mosaic-style enamel ring that has me yearning for warmer evenings and a pastel-coloured sun dress. Love the real azure greens and blues... Check out the British soldier hat ring, too. Little beauties!

Multicolour enamel jewel ring and white enamel swan ring, both by Disaya

A little something: Dior Joaillerie - Making of a Milly Carnivora ring

2011-02-02T23:03:00.004Z

J'adore the Diorette rings by Dior, but the Milly Carnivora is something else. Victoire de Castellane, the designer behind Dior's jewellery collections, is fun and silly and you can see it in the bright colours and whimiscal style of her jewellery designs... Despite the fact they cost thousands.

Check out the making of one of the Milly Carnivora rings (worth it for the rose-cut diamonds alone, aaaaah!) which packs four months of work into three and a half minutes. Et voila indeed!

P.S. Sorry, still on a video roll it seems!

A little something: Tina Lilienthal's 'Little Rogues'

2011-02-01T17:52:00.005Z

I'm really quite surprised that I've never written about Tina Lilienthal's jewellery here before, having been a fan for sometime... Her jewellery is a cute mix of tiny skull and rabbit pendants, with some beetles, strawberries and cherries thrown in for good kitsch measure. Lots of colour makes Tina's work really eye-catching, and her silk thread necklaces are a must-have for their £20 or so price tag...

Her gorgeous Little Rogues are a new collection, taking her classic Little Skulls as their base, and adding some personality with moustaches (very Salvador Dali), arrows, antlers and tropical flowers. Love, love, love. What's more, Tina has now added rose gold plating to her collections, which gives an even better meaning to her 'dead cute' tag line. Rose gold is so lovely and gives everything that girly blush - here its juxtaposition with the skulls and horror (awww) of her pieces is what makes it. And I love the little tropical-looking flowers too - just in time for summer. Better go and find that Hawaiian shirt of mine...

A little something: Pebble's rough-cut citrine ring

2011-01-24T14:28:00.000Z

OK, so I know it's only Janaury, but I am in a summer bubble of excitement at work today, seeing the amazing things we've picked up from a recent trip to Pebble. The colours are good enough to eat and the gemstones are shimmering away. There is lapis, prehnite, aquamarine, coral, labradorite, moonstone, dyed jade, chalcedony... Then I spotted this AMAZING ring - the kind of mad thing I fall very hard for. I grabbed our camera, took a few snaps et voila. Pebble's rough-cut citrine ring. Luckily it's far too big for me, but I look forward to seeing which colourful (and very lucky) lady snaps this badboy up. <3

Like Gold Dust video - Merle O'Grady 'Navette' necklace

2011-01-22T17:45:00.002Z

So here goes... My first ever video for LGD. It's an unedited, filmed-in-my-bedroom cracker of a first attempt, and I'm really pronouncing my words haha. I'm sure things will improve along the way! Anyway, enough about the filming, press play and watch my brief introduction to Merle O'Grady's lovely Navette pendant, from her SS11 Poolside collection. This beauty is made from sterling silver, howlite, Swarovski crystal and perspex. Lovely!

ps. I picked Merle as one of my 'ones to watch' for Adorn London earlier this month. Have a read here.

A little something: Belle Sauvage SS11 film

2011-01-16T22:38:00.000Z

I stumbled across this gem recently. Love love love. Featuring jewellery favourites of mine Nicholas King, Pebble London, Maria Francesca Pepe (MFPepe) and insane costume jeweller Andy Farrow. Watch and be amazed...

Adorn London does a vintage Christmas

2011-01-16T18:04:00.001Z

Back in December, Adorn London editor Juliet Hutton-Squire treated us Adorn contributors to a Christmas party - a day of decadence which saw us devouring cakes and sandwiches at CocoMaya (honestly the best chicken sandwich I've ever had!) before heading to Atelier Mayer for an afternoon of vintage dressing-up.

Top - Bottom: CocoMaya's vintage crockery and stunning chocolates

CocoMaya is like nowhere else. Aside from its stunning handmade chocolates in a million colours and flavours, they do a wonderful afternoon tea. Sitting down to a gorgeous gift of vintage clip-on earrings from Juliet, we indulged in several cups of jasmine tea served up in vintage floral crockery and so many cakes that even I - a self-confessed cake fiend - was stuck on which to choose first.

At the table, sticking out our little fingers while drinking from vintage teacups!

L-R: Carmen Haid of Atelier Meyer, Juliet Hutton-Squire and Maia Adams

After making a good go of the delicacies (there were enough that we left with a box of cakes each) and feeling slightly less dainty than upon our arrival, we headed a few steps around the corner to Atelier Mayer for a surprise. Juliet had organised an afternoon of heavenly vintage dressing-up with Atelier Mayer's founder Carmen Haid. Drinking champagne from kitsch 70s glasses, we dressed up in vintage gowns and posed for a few fun photographs. And we're not just talking old sun dresses and jackets - this was designer vintage: Chanel, Dior, YSL, Caroline Herrera...

The jewellery was out of this world; stunning Chanel clip ons with the classic 'double C' logo, Kenneth Jay Lane pieces, glittering diamante collars, chunky monochrome neckpieces... A fabulous, fabulous day and one of the best Christmas parties I've ever had!

Long time no see!

2011-01-16T17:17:00.000Z

Tut-tut, I have been a bad girl. I've not written for about 6 weeks... I must admit I feel very bad about it, and things have been super busy with lots going on (not to mention the busy run up to Christmas, which completely took the wind out of me)... But I'm back!

Some of you may know I work for EC One, a fabulous independent jeweller in London run by husband and wife Jos and Alison Skeates. With Christmas being the busiest time of year, it was all hands on deck in both the office and the shops over Christmas: writing newsletters, sending SS11 pieces to press, helping chaps choose the right gift, gift-wrapping, last-minute engagement rings orders, posting about 30 web orders a day, setting up the sale... Phew!

Top: EC One's store in Notting Hill

Above: Jos and Alison

And then I had some fabulous news - another reason why my mind has been elsewhere - with a new job role at Professional Jeweller magazine working with Rachael Taylor. Rachael is an inspiring, forward-thinking editor, who has spent the last year single-handedly making PJ the best business-to-retailer jewellery magazine there is. I'm now her 'assistant editor' (so says my email signature!) and will be splitting time between EC One and the Professional Jeweller office in Hatton Garden. I've already helped with a bridal photo shoot for next month's issue, as well as chasing several other leads for The Jewellery Show at Spring Fair and thoughts on this year's bridal trends.

So yes, expect the posts to continue as normal from now. I've got lots stored up including the Adorn London Christmas party, my new Merle O'Grady necklace (love it!!) and a slightly late pick of the sales piece.

Alex Monroe's 12 Days of Christmas

2010-12-02T22:57:00.001Z

What a lovely idea! After hearing on the grapevine what Alex Monroe and co had planned for the run up to Christmas I was super excited to see the beginning two days of Alex Monroe's 12 Days of Christmas advent calendar. Playing on the classic song but switching a few of the details around, the little AM workshop have been super busy putting together an ascending number of goodies in their 'trunk show' style. That is, when the pieces are gone, they're gone; making them even more must-have. The first day was of course a Partridge in a Pear Tree necklace. And not just any old necklace; it featured a solid 18t gold Pear, its chain draped over a handmade silver tree, complete with fallen golden pear.

And the second day...? Two Turtle Doves necklace, perched on a little branch in gold plated silver. Sold out of course...

I really cannot wait to see what will happen over the next ten days. What will Nine Ladies Dancing be?! At least we're safe guessing about Five Gold Rings though, eh?

Alex Monroe's mini tour of his workshop

2010-11-29T21:54:00.001Z

I was just having a quick read through the Alex Monroe blog ahead of something fun I'm looking forward to writing about soon (before the end of the week, anyway!), when I came across this lovely little video filmed by Emma at Alex Monroe. It's a mini tour of the staff and workshop at AM headquarters in London. Alex showing us his favourite drill and saw... gotta love that!

Stephen Webster: Seven Deadly Sins Rings

2010-11-29T21:35:00.002Z

Last week I got to luxuriate in the headiness of high-end jewellery - being involved in the launch of British jewellery designer Stephen Webster's exclusive new collection - Seven Deadly Sins - at EC One in Notting Hill. This was the first time the rings had been unveiled in the UK, and the idea behind the collection is Stephen through and through - a little bit dark, a little bit playful; showing off the beauty and the atrocity of the theme simultaneously. The desire for Stephen's jewellery is reflected in these rings' exclusivity: only seven of each design will ever be made... And with two of the seven styles already selling out, the Seven Deadly Sins rings are in demand - despite starting at £15,000 and peaking at £125,000...

So here we have them: Envy, Gluttony, Greed, Pride, Sloth, Wrath and Lust.... and a few little snaps from the evening at EC One

Envy - white gold set with a central green tourmaline, black and white diamonds

Gluttony - white gold set with a central fire opal, white agate 'teeth' and rubies

Greed - yellow gold set with round brilliant-cut diamonds

Pride - set with a central emerald-cut amethyst in anodised titanium, with blue and pink sapphires

Sloth - yellow gold set with a cushion-cut aquamarine, diamonds and rubies
Wrath - rose gold set with a deep red garnet, rubies and black and white diamonds

Lust - white gold set with a central tanzanite and white diamonds

Interview: Ros Millar

2010-11-23T16:11:00.003Z

I first saw Ros Millar's jewellery at New Designers, an absolute treasure-trove of upcoming, just-graduated design talent. Next, she appeared as an entrant and later a top ten finalist in EC One's graduate jewellery design competition EC One Unsigned, meeting Ros in person at the Unsigned winner's party. Today, Ros is busy with a new collection, open studio days and is seeing ever-growing interest in her jewellery - most recently she was involved in City jeweller Little 15's evening of events for Vogue's Fashion Night In. I caught up with this lovely lass to find out more about her collections and future plans...

Three stacking rings from Ros' Growth Collection, set with natural brown diamonds

Your jewellery has a clear style to it, and I love that it's a step away from the cute, vintage-style of a lot of jewellery designers are doing. Tell me a little about your jewellery-making history and style...

I first studied jewellery at Ulster university for about a month during my foundation year and absolutely loved it... So I scrapped all my intentions of going to study Fashion and moved to Sheffield to study Metalwork and Jewellery. There I found the techniques which suited me best and were easy to work with - cuttlebone casting in particular. Taking this technique as a base I do most of my designing after. When I left university in 2009 I moved to London and started an internship with Melissa McArthur and then with Fannie Schiavoni, as well as freelance work. Finally I set up my studio and began to design for myself again.

Sounds brilliant, a great progression and some great designers to be working with. You're originally from Northern Ireland where you grew up and studied; do you think your work takes any influence from your early surroundings?

I grew up in a place called Bangor on the coast of Northern Ireland. It's so beautiful... And I do believe that it does have influence on my designs - the fact that they are very organic!

Ros' Double Stud stacking rings

And how did you find studying in Sheffield, with its history of industry, engineering and the Yorkshire countryside so close by?

I loved Sheffield, I really miss it. I think that it was the perfect place to study and really concentrate on finding my design style. In terms of the countryside - I am lucky that my current studio is based in the Essex countryside in a place called Felsted. Soon though I'll be embarking on a new studio in Greenwich where I will be moving in with two other designers (Emma Yeo and Rose Sharp Jones). I hope it will help being surrounded by other designers and being closer to Hatton Garden!

Your Growth Collection features stacking rings in silver, oxidised silver and rose gold - how do you make these rings?

All my pieces are cuttlebone cast at some point in the design process. Once cast, I then decide which features of the ring to leave textured, and which parts to clean up and make smooth. The cuttlebone gives an organic texture to each of the rings. It's important that all rings fit together well so that they can be stacked easil and be worn comfortably.

They're great, especially the ones with serious height to them! Tell me a little about your new collection...

I'm working on a new collection now - I am so excited about it. I feel that having had this year since university, I can show in this collection how I have developed and grown as a designer. I plan to play with colour again (move away from the black oxidisation and rose gold plate) but I definitely want to keep the cuttlefish bone grain within all my pieces again. I want to develop this process more, to make it my signature style as a designer. As well as developing new collections I will always enjoy to make one-off pieces, I think that these help with the designing for new collections and vice-versa.

Pebble and Growth stacking rings

Do you have a favourite jewellery designer or someone you look up to?

My favourite jewellery designer is Ruth Tomlinson; I have followed her career and work since being at university myself. I love her techniques [Ruth uses porcelain, gemstones and glass] textures and use of colour... I think she's legendary when it comes to electroforming!

I also have a favourite 'fashion jewellery' designer - Fannie Schiavoni. She really inspired me to work hard and to design my own jewellery when I interned with her having just moved to London. I think that her background in fashion helps give her jewellery pieces edge - they are so bold and well made!

Are there anyone designers you'd love to collaborate with?

Good question!!! I would really love to collaborate with another designer who wasn't necessarily a jewellery designer, I think it would be great to see how I could push myself and having the influence of someone with a different design mind... It makes me a little excited to be moving into a studio with two different designers from different design disciplines.

And finally - that age old one - where do you see yourself in 5 years' time?

Recognised!!!

A selection of rings from the Growth Collection

What a sweetheart, eh?! A big thank you to Ros for her brilliant answers and photos

Lanvin for H&M Jewellery

2010-11-05T21:30:00.009Z

That's right! The long anticipated range by Lanvin for H&M has finally been unveiled. Although we've still got to wait until November 23rd before we can snap it up, we've seen some great collaborations in recent years - Sonia Rykiel, Comme des Garcons - and now it looks to be Lanvin's turn to impress. While most of the clothing revolves around dresses and suits for the impending party season, the jewellery is rather grand as well. Think pearls and gold chains, bold acrylic neckpieces with ribbon ties and matching chandelier earrings... Here's a sneak peek!

All images courtesy of H&M

Check out the video, below

LANVIN FOR H&M. SEE THE FULL COLLECTION AT HM.COM

A little something: Pippa Small Jellyfish earrings

2010-11-02T16:08:00.000Z

I'd forgotten about Moonstone recently, which is a real shame. These stunning Jellyfish earrings by Pippa Small reminded me of my first Monica Vinader ring - gosh, that sounds like 'my first shoes' or something - which was a large square Moonstone. Like the Jellyfish earrings it shimmered with rainbow hues and soft icy blue colours. After a year of daily wear the poor thing was tattered, but in time for the wintry season I'm going to dig it out of my jewellery box, have it cleaned and replated. Love it. And love these...

A little somthing: CA & LOU Deco Loulou ring

2010-10-20T20:50:00.000+01:00

Just spotted this CA & LOU Deco inspired Loulou ring on the Browns website. Lovely lovely, and definitely up my street as I (somewhat impatiently) await the new Holly Fulton for ASOS collection which hits the e-shelves on Friday. Tick, tick, tick.

Rose Gold plated bronze ring, set with Swarovski crystals, by CA & LOU

A little something: 8LA - channelling your inner-Prince

2010-10-20T20:34:00.001+01:00

8LA is a fun new jewellery brand by designer Lucy Holbrook. Skulls, crosses and pearls feature throughout her jewellery, which is catholic-meets-rock'n'roll-meets-prettypirate-meets-NottingHill. Yep - it's wearable and subtle, but with character. Loving these Prince-inspired 'Becca' hoops; check out more at the 8LA shop here.

A little something: Disaya Kiss mask necklace

2010-10-14T22:38:00.001+01:00

Like something straight out of Nacho Libre, this little Kiss Mask necklace by Disaya made me smile. Love it even more that it's a long necklace!

A little something: Giles Jewellery

2010-10-11T14:49:00.001+01:00

That's right. Giles Deacon has taken a step into the world of jewellery design (a bit better than Cheryl Cole for De Grisongono, no?), creating a new label Giles Jewellery. His cute collection has taken some recognisable designs and scaled them down into wearable pendants, earrings and bangles. His own little mouse motif, named Eek, also features as does his infamous triceratops Dino - better known in handbag form... Loving it! Available later this month from Dover Street Market and Selfridges.

New designer: Merle O'Grady

2010-10-10T21:26:00.003+01:00

Merle O'Grady is a talented up-and-coming designer, already making waves with her stunning jewellery collections. Hailing from Dublin and presently based in London, Merle's jewellery is a striking mix of texture, colour and shape. Swarovski crystals and perspex contrast one another, resulting in jewellery she describes as "armour-like and ultimately luxurious".

Here's a sneaky peek at her new SS11 'Poolside' collection. I'm loving its futuristic feel, which clashes with kitsch colours and shapes reminiscent of 50s motel pools, candy-coloured swimsuits and plastic flamingos all with a nod to the Navajo... Bliss!

Jewellery at London Fashion Week - SS11

2010-10-10T21:01:00.000+01:00

Finding myself back at Somerset House for London Fashion Week a few weeks back, I was excited to this time have a partner in crime - my workmate Rainy - to come and lust over next season's jewellery.

We stepped in from the rush of traffic along the Embankment, and straight into Nicholas King who whisked us along to his stand, excited to have us as his first familiar faces of the day. Neon seemed to dominate, as did pastel florals. With a nod to Christopher Kane's lacy neon numbers, orange and lime seemed to fizz in his bold resin cuffs and bangles, while a striking new range of necklaces and earrings got Rainy very excited indeed. Check out her modelling skills, below.

Next up we had a quick browse over Lola Rose. I was instantly drawn to the pale, pea green and rose combination of carved stone bangles and necklaces. Lola Rose always seem to come up with something a little bit bold but still really easy to wear - their pieces pretty much work with any style. Love the large stone Elsa collar, as below...

Moving onto the wonderful Fiona Paxton there was a gorgeous new collection for SS11 including coral cut-out leather bangles and earrings (super lightweight and wearable) alongside collars that Rainy absolutely fell for, with its nod to ancient Egyptian jewels. A new collection of longer pendants also stood out. Fiona modestly explained how she's been selling a number of pieces to Cheryl Cole (noted previously on X Factor auditions, check out the necklace). A great collection I know I'll continue to covet....

We stopped off for a quick coffee and some free ice cream, and attempted some celeb spotting (um, Jason Gardener anyone?). Lacking in success on that front, and eager to get back inside we headed back in to Zoe & Morgan, a little favourite of mine.

Ruth, the youngest sibling of Zoe and Morgan was busy displaying their fine collection as we stopped by for a look. Loved the little silver necklace with the record on it, and the new collection of animal mask rings. Posed for their 'usual suspects' blog posts, tried to get my Zoe & Morgan skull ring in, but ended up just looking a bit special!!

Akong London was at the special Kickstart stand at International Jewellery London in early September, and it was great to see her pieces again at LFW. Fur and feathers and chains and gemstones made Akong's works pretty stunning. Each piece in entirely handmade, making them rather unique and very covetable. The new season collection features lots of gemstones, while the feathered and fur-trimmed neckpieces definitely had a regal feel.

Joanna Cave was up in the Esthetica section, where ethical jewellery, fashion and accessories are on show - a growing section each year. Great to see Joanna. She had her wayfarers in hand, so we asked her to pose (such a shame it came out so blurry!) but also got some great snaps of her new collections, including her continued project with ethical fashion label Partimi, and a new focus on minimal vs detail. Loving the earrings this season (as ever!) and the gorgeous little heart necklaces. A great show!!

A little something: Elisa Solomon jewellery

2010-10-05T14:13:00.000+01:00

Cute cute cute. Having another little browse at Cat Bird recently I spotted a delicate black diamond ring by Elisa Solomon; checking out more of her work I was hit with a real sense of the 1960s; flower power and free love, cute handmade rings with multicoloured gemstones and playful shapes.

Think butterflies, hearts, daisy garlands. In fact, reading more about Elisa and her style, she explains "[my] designs reflect the pure belief in love, freedom and kindness of the 60s... These symbols are a subtle reminder of what is important to focus on in daily life". Though she's based in New York (and our nearest stockist is in France!) I can definitely see the appeal this side of the pond. Looks like I'm feeding my sapphire addiction again... Oops!

Silver Butterfly ring set with pink and orange sapphires

Yellow gold Peace necklace set with multicoloured gemstones include sapphires, garnets, emeralds, aquamarine and iolite

Yellow gold Heart ring set with sapphires and turquoise gemstones

Yellow gold Moon pendant set with pearls, rose-cute diamonds and opals (my birthstone!)

Jewellery Street-Style at Bestival

2010-10-01T10:46:00.000+01:00

I know, I know. Quite a weird idea considering it was a festival and (oops) almost a month ago! But here's a little round up of some of the gorgeous gals'n'jewels at Bestival this year. With over 50,000 attendees and its annual fancy dress party taking on a 'Year of the Fantastic' theme, there were so many tremendous looks going on - big necklaces, loads of bangles - that it took me a while to choose who to approach and ask to photograph their jewellery. My highlight had to have been spotting a girl wearing a gorgeous white gold Ungar & Ungar floral ring amidst all the mud; I started asking her all about it and probably scared her half to death getting all technical. Poor thing... Anyway meet Bisi, Elly, Sophie and two other girlies from Guildford whose names I never got. Fabulous.

Bisi - 25, Bristol
Bisi rocked the 'stacked' look with faux leather and chain bracelets from Swedish fashion retailer BikBo k - a great high street find!

Elly - 23, London
Keeping things simple Elly's bespoke silver name necklace caught my eye, as did her dusky rose quartz ring from Portobello Market. Love its detailed setting.

Sophie - 22, London
Sophie's jewellery style is cute and quirky, mixing her 'S' wax-seal pendant with a crawling soldier necklace from Topman.

Girl from Guilford 1
Firstly, the ice cream totally made this look - but her striking glam-goth black feather necklace is actually a Primark steal!

Girl from Guildford 2
LOVED this outfit - cute shorts, amazing sunglasses. I spotted her from about 30ft away and ran over to take her pic. The necklace itself is entirely hand-beaded and from Afghanistan.

P.S. Me in my 'fantastical' home-made butterfly costume. Really works with wellies, no?!

So much to do... So little time!

2010-09-28T14:44:00.000+01:00

I know, that old adage. I've got a nice collection of things to write about but I swear the change in the seasons has left me feeling all a bit worn out recently... Nevertheless I'm feeling a new spring in my step, so good things will be coming Like Gold Dust's way very soon. Pop up shops? London Fashion Week jewellery? It'll all be here in the coming week! Kx

A little something: Holly Fulton earrings at Browns

2010-09-28T13:35:00.001+01:00

I love Holly Fulton. Really, really love her. So naturally I've got some amour spare for these amazing earrings too.

Holly Fulton Perspex earrings. Image courtesy of brownsfashion.com

New jewellery designers at IJL - International Jewellery London

2010-09-16T21:46:00.000+01:00

What feels like ages ago now - waaaay back on 6th September - I headed down to IJL to take a tour around the new layout and have a good nose around the new jewellery designers showing this year. There was guaranteed to be some brilliant ones to watch, due in part to the Kickstart and Bright Young Gems sections of the show, both of which promoted emerging jewellery designers, fresh from or a couple of years out of studying.

The Kickstart stand was fabulous - I got chatting to Daisy Knights who I first wrote about a year or so ago, and haven't seen for a few months, and was also pleased to see Momocreatura and Hannah Bedford who I've also given a little mention to on Like Gold Dust before. Alongside some old favourites were Jessica De Lotz and Akong London, two brilliant and boudary-pushing new designers who are definitely due a mention of their own here soon.

Daisy Knights at her stand; her Lornie feather rings

Touring the rest of the stands at the show, I got chatting with Sophie Breitmeyer, at the Bright Young Gems stand, who has just entered EC One's 'Unsigned' competition for new graduate jewellery designers. Her gorgeous, sculptural jewellery caught my eye for its mix of shapes and textures; pearls, metal ruffles and chains... I was also pleased to see Hannah Livingston aglow with her recent award from Astley Clarke who are taking her under their wing as an emerging jewellery talent - her little box necklaces are definitely causing a well-deserved stir!

Sophie Breitmeyer at her stand, with her pearl necklace design entered into EC One's competition
Her gorgeous 'Archway Shoulder Necklace', below

Laura Gravestock was also her lovely smiley self, excited to hear from Swag jewellers who had an eye on her stunning Majestic collection, not to mention the fact this was her first year at the show with a stand all to herself!

Laura Gravestock at her first IJL stand, her classic 'Written' collection above

I also caught up with old favourite Becca (who was pleased to see me wearing my charm necklace of hers!) and had a gorgeous display, bringing her playful vintage-feel to the modern surrounds of such a contemporary jewellery show. Aside from her gorgeous new enamelled pieces, I adored her giant paper sculptures, made by her good friends and accessory designers Swash.

Becca with her vintage-styled stand and gorgeous jewellery (note the little dog and cross-bones necklace inspired by Becca's whippet, Pearl), and her irresitable little bird ornament!

A great show, with lots more that I could write about - if only I'd taken 100 more photos!! And many more people on my list to write about in the coming months - notably Phoebe Coleman, who I'll write about very soon, and new collections from ethical jewellery designers Oria...

Ps. Apologies for the really bad photo editing/colour - the light in there is super intense, teamed with the designer's own lamps it sends cameras a bit haywire!!

A little something: Adorn London goes Mad Men

2010-09-14T10:59:00.000+01:00

Firstly, let me apologise for the delay in posting - have been at Bestival on the Isle of Wight for the past few days. I have a little write up about IJL that's now a week overdue (sorry all the lovely designers who I have written about, it's coming!!). In the meantime, head to Adorn London where this week's theme is dedicated to the fantastic 60s-based show Mad Men. Better dig out my tweed pencil skirt and pussy-bow blouse, yay!

A little something: Laura Tabor on ASOS

2010-09-03T11:28:00.000+01:00

Tasty tasty... It's Friday and there's mega Friday feeling in the office today. Strong coffee, fudge from Devon (end of the holiday season, you see) and jelly babies. Continuing my good-enough-to-eat theme, which began with Boucheron's Ma Jolie ring a few weeks back, I've just stumbled across Laura Tabor on ASOS. I've been eyeing up her collection for a while - especially the Sugar Mice earrings - so it's a sweet treat that she's now on ASOS. Check out some of the goodies below...

Sweetie Bracelet with 'Sweet' tag, by Laura Tabor

'I Want Candy' dog tag necklace, by Laura Tabor

'Sweet' chocolate bar ring, by Laura Tabor

Designer: Mabel Hasell

2010-09-02T14:53:00.001+01:00

I spotted Mabel Hasell's jewellery at New Designers a few weeks back, and loved the way her pieces looked so haphazard yet beautiful, sharp yet wearable. Her jewellery plays with organic shapes of pewter, and solid silver randomly set with gemstones in a variety of shapes and hues, from violet and pink to royal blue.

Top: A smiley Mabel
Middle and Bottom: Mabel's Floating Gems ring

In Mabel's own words, "[they're] unorthodox pieces that emphasise the vibrant gemstones even more so than just setting them traditionally". Having trained in jewellery design at Middlesex University and graudating this year, Mabel's work exemplifies what I love about new jewellery design - it's quirky, it's wearable and will guarantee plenty of admiration! See Mabel's Flickr page for more images.

Top: Floating Gems cuff

Middle: Floating Gems Flat ring

Bottom: Floating Gems Flat pendant

All images courtesy of Mabel Hasell

A little something: Wright & Teague 'Gala' bangles

2010-08-31T14:43:00.000+01:00

Oh, the first day back at work after the bank holiday... Fuzzy head and tired feet (I blame all the dancing at Carnival) but also time for me to get back into the swing of things on Like Gold Dust!
Last Saturday night I found myself on the fringes of Stoke Newington, at a party with a Surrealist theme. I went as one half of Magritte's Les Amants and while I was there got talking to Claudia, a lovely gal who works for Wright & Teague. It's been a while since I've looked them up but I'm glad I did, because I discovered a fun collection of jewels and these cute 'Gala' bangles. Horse heads, tassles, stars and coins. I especially adore the charms engraved with 'Amor' and 'Love Divine'. Such a sucker for romance..!

Gala bangles by Wright & Teague. image courtesy of wrightandteague.com

Azendi's 20th store opening - Kings Road, London

2010-08-21T17:12:00.001+01:00

This week I was invited along to the press launch of Azendi's 20th UK store, on London's Kings Road. Living in Battersea a few years ago, the Kings Road was my local haunt for shopping, working (I was an Office girl once upon a time!) going to the cinema, snapping up bargains in Zara and knitting paraphernalia in Peter Jones. It was a little bit of a nostalgia trip heading back west for the first time in a while, so I took along my old Battersea flatmate Sophia to peruse the gems and jewels in the new store...

Azendi have been selling a design-led range of silver and gold jewellery since the opening of their first store in 1989. Locations now include York, Bath, Edinburgh, Leeds and Manchester, with the Kings Road store their newest addition. The great thing is there's something for everyone, whether simple pearl studs for a bridesmaid, a gem-set cocktail ring or a necklace for mum...

Top: Rose Gold Vermeil and Silver Lace Heart necklace and earrings
Middle: Silver and Vermeil bangles
Botton: Sophia trying on a long Pearl and Abalone rose necklace

I was impressed with thier price points, not to mention the delicious but lethal champagne and vodka cocktails which were served up, alongside cute cupcakes that had me in awe of thier yumminess. Back to the new store though! The lovely Vicky helped Soph and I try some goodies on; she was full of knowledge of gemstones and the designers they are currently hosting in store, who include Shaun Leane, Stephen Webster and Jayce Wong (the first and last were there on the night).

Jayce Wong's Octahedron Ring, with Crystals and Rubies

It was Jayce Wong's collection in particular that I was drawn to, with her fun use of gemstones in silver settings, the ring (above) was made around two central crystals, chosen by Jayce because they glow bright purple under UV light. We watched Jayce demonstrate it, and it was definitely unique. I love the ruby surround as well, making it feel all regal alongside my Zoe & Morgan skull ring!

Top: Sophia trying on Jayce's Rutilated Quartz and Sapphire Ring
Bottom: Loving the antique mirrors!

So overall a fabulous evening, and it's definitely put Azendi on my 'ones-to-watch' list. Soph left with a lovely gold vermeil bangle, set with Onyx, Tiger's Eye and Smokey Quartz. Fabulous. And with the Azendi online shop just making waves, I'm sure I'll be writing more again soon!

A little something: Jordan Askill Gemstone Heart Ring

2010-08-18T21:44:00.001+01:00

I first saw this Jordan Askill heart ring - in plain 18ct gold - on a lovely lady I was talking to at work one day. Then I saw the gemstone heart ring and totally fell for it. So I have only two words: I do.

A little something: Purple Jewels on Adorn London

2010-08-17T15:43:00.003+01:00

This fortnight, Adorn is paying homage to John Galliano's catwalk for Dior Haute Couture AW 10/11. Each of us contributors were given a colour to work with - from cirtus yellows to scarlet red. My pick was purple and the gorgeous hues it includes, from pale lavender to deep indigo. Taking inspiration from the Scottish Highlands, the unusual shapes in Galliano's collection made me opt for quirky cuts of gemstone mixed with offbeat designs. Take a look at the full piece on Adorn London here, and the other colourways worked with here .

Marc by Marc Jacobs Geo Ring set

2010-08-16T12:34:00.000+01:00

Last week I got to play the proud auntie for a few days, kitten sitting two lovely little felines owned by my friend Holly. While Holly escaped to Wales to camp under the lovely Perseid meteor shower, I snuggled up in Dalston with these two cuties...

...And in return for feeding, playing and cooing over the kittens, Hol gave me a fabulous set of Marc by Marc Jacobs Geo Rings. Made from perspex, these lovelies come not only in clear but green, purple, red, sky blue and black. Great for a little mix'n'matching <3

Clear Marc by Marc Jacobs Geo Rings

A little something: Assya Tourmaline Peace necklace

2010-08-14T17:47:00.000+01:00

After a weekend spent dallying about in the Cornish countryside my inner country gal - relaxed, free spirited and a little too partial to cider - has raised her head and as a result I'm currently loving all things bright and colourful (as seen below in Boucheron's 'Ma Jolie' ring). Walking past Assya's store most days on the way to work, I've fallen for this pretty, rosary-style Tourmaline Peace necklace. Complete with its gold vermeil peace sign, I know this would be one to layer up with some vintage necklaces and wear with a cute dress and oversized knitted cardigan.

Tourmaline Peace necklace by Assya. Images courtesy of Assya.co.uk

A little something: Boucheron 'Ma Jolie' rings

2010-08-12T17:40:00.000+01:00

Good enough to eat, non? It was pretty much love at first sight when I saw the gorgeous 18ct rose gold Ma Jolie ring by Boucheron. Set with multicoloured sapphires and a central pink tourmaline it's one delicious piece of jewellery... Especially with its £5,300 price tag!

I've always loved what Boucheron do - quirky French jewellery featuring everything from gem studded hedgehogs, to macaroons and snakes. The other items in the Ma Jolie collection are definitely worth a look; they're inspired by the powder puffs found on 1950s dressing tables with their candy coloured gemstones and soft, flowing shape. Just as irresistable is the sapphire and diamond Ma Jolie ring - the little sister to the tourmaline ring - at a more accessible at just over £2,640. Yum yum!

All images courtesy of Boucheron.com

A little something: Dominic Jones on sale!

2010-08-03T15:26:00.000+01:00

My lovely friends Dale and Holly are massive Dominic Jones fans, with his rings gracing their fingers (along with some beauties from Vivienne Westwood), in silver, rose gold and yellow gold plate. Lovely. And guess what? Dominic's classic Jack ring is on sale at Matches right now. Hmm...!

Images courtesy of matchesfashion.com

A little something: Niessing 'Victory' Ring

2010-08-01T14:44:00.001+01:00

Niessing have been in my life for a few years now. I've quietly appreciated what they do: precision-made jewellery based on physics, weight and size. Thier modern approach to jewellery making is refreshing; I always thought I was a deco girl, but the Victory ring has become a little favourite of mine. Imagine being 5 years old and drawing a diamond ring... This would be it.

Niessing 'Victory' ring. Image courtesy of Niessing

A little something: My holiday jewels on Adorn London

2010-07-26T21:04:00.000+01:00

As part of Adorn London's Holiday Jewels week, I was asked to contribute my key holiday pieces whether home or away. Thinking back to a fabulous barge weekend away I had earlier this summer (OK, it was a pirate-themed hen weekend, but hey it was a nice break from the pace of London!) it had to be simple and a little bit fun. So - anchors away - it could only have been my little EC One silver anchor pendant - as seen in gold in Glamour last month - and Joanna Cave's fabulously simple tag and pearl necklace, a special graduation present from my lovely workmates. Perfect holiday jewels, whether playing sailor or sunbather.

Click here to read more of the post

EC One Silver Anchor necklace, and Joanna Cave tag and pearl necklace

A little something: Servane Gaxotte necklaces

2010-07-23T15:42:00.000+01:00

I frist saw these little lovelies in Fortnum & Mason of all places. Now also stocked at Browns in London and Prey in Bath, it seems the time has come to give mention to Servane Gaxotte's necklaces. To quote my workmate Rainy, "If Tim Burton made jewellery, it'd look like that". Enough said. Now enjoy these freaky little things!

All designs available at Browns Focus.

Images coursesy of brownsfashion.com

New Designers: Better late than never!

2010-07-19T11:59:00.001+01:00

I feel terrible... I was meant to write about New Designers pretty much straight after the show but it's been a good 2 weeks now. So better late than never I guess! New Designers is an annual show for design graduates (jewellery, textiles, graphic, ceramics, furniture and so on), where design colleges and universities from around the UK come together to show off emerging talent and new ideas - so definitely an interesting one when it comes to jewellery!

The entrance to London's Design Business Centre, home to New Designers.
Images courtesy of newdesigners.com

To keep things short and sweet, here's a little selection of those jewellery designers who - for me - really stood out at this year's show. There was almost too much to look at, and with only an hour to make it round while the boyf waited patiently outside, I'm hoping this selection will justify just how much brilliant, high quality jewellery is being designed in the UK right now...

Nicola Grant

Resin and silicone neckpieces which shimmered like little ice sculptures. Really loved her use of colour and light through the texture of the resin and its slinky movement.

Images courtesy of Nicola Grant

Charlotte Kimber

These unusual bangles and rings were pretty unmissable, taking their influence from the shapes and forms of octopus tentacles. The jewellery is designed to be playful, creating different shapes as it moves.

Images courtesy of charlottekimber.co.uk

Lisa Murphy

Formed using Rapid Prototyping techniques, Lisa'a jewellery takes freehand designs and turns them into structured, graceful necklaces and rings. Loved the industrial-meets-deco feel of her jewellery designs.

Images courtesy of lisajmurphy.co.uk

Alice O'Neill

Taking inspiration from everyday objects, Alice's present collection focuses on dressmaking, and the little bits and pieces found in a 1950s sewing box. Strands of lace, empty cotton reels and fastenings all feature in her pretty yet quirky jewellery.

Images courtesy of Alice O'Neill

Francesca Stadelmayr

The soft colours of the perspex which Francesca uses in her designs really caught my eye. Along with the shapes and solid feel of her jewellery, the need to touch and pick up her work was irresistible. A great graduate from London Met's Sir John Cass jewellery school.

Images courtesy of francescastadelmayr.com

Holly Wilcox

Based on seed pods and the natural shapes and forms found in flora and fauna, Holly's jewellery features granulation, a mix of metals and textures for jewellery which - like Francesca's - you want to hold in your hand and feel it as you wear it.

Images courtesy of hollywilcox.co.uk

Myia Bonner

Myia's taking of the simple, ubiquitous diamond shape and turning it into over-sized jewellery was clever and also pretty. Mixing colourful perspex designs with silver and brass pieces, Myia's work explored material and shape for a bold outcome

Images courtesy of myiabonner.co.uk

Maria MacLennan

Inspired by Paris and a love of vintage 'ephemera', Maria's jewellery designs were super detailed transformations of match boxes. Mixing oxidised silver, pearls, ribbon and paper, love letters were a theme through Maria's jewellery, as was the chance to hide little trinkets inside her work.

Images courtesy of mariamaclennan.com

For the full list of exhibiting colleges and universities, take a look at the New Designers site, here.

UK Jewellery Awards - Winners 2010

2010-07-17T17:05:00.003+01:00

So after several months of judging and preparation the UK Jewellery Awards took place on Thursday at London's Grovesnor House Hotel. There was a rather star-studded line up at this year's awards, with familiar names and past winners including Shaun Leane, Stephen Webster, Astley Clarke and Alex Monroe, alongside new names and brands who've either had phenomenal years or have a promising future ahead...

Video from the 2009 Jewellery Awards, featuring Retail Jeweller's previous editor Sarah Carpin

So, here are the most interesting winners - some were certainly surprising, but nonetheless deserved.

Jewellery Etailer of the Year - Alex Monroe - www.alexmonroe.com

We all love Alex (even my Mum got treated to some lovely Hummingbird earrings a few months ago) so the award was deserved, despite being up against heavyweights including Astley Clarke and Steffans. The site has come on leaps and bounds this last year, their customer interaction is brilliant and the amount of product online is great. A little well done to the lovely Emma at Alex Monroe, and Alex himself who cycled Lands End - John O'Groats, arriving at JoG the night before the awards!

Alex... well you know where he is!

Alex Monroe's classic Bumblebee Necklace

Jewellery Brand of the Year - Ti Sento

The word 'brand' will always make me shudder unfortunately, so I don't have much to say on this one. Ti Sento's campaign this year has been ubiquitous, they've featured in pretty much ever issue of Retail Jeweller that's come through my letterbox. Stephen Webster not taking the prize home, as a British brand, is a shame but it's great that a new winner has taken centre stage. And hey, at least Pandora didn't win..!

Ti Sento. Images courtesy of tisento-milano.com

New Designer of the Year -Alexander Davis

A talented fine jewellery designer, Alexander Davis has some rather interesting rings, mixing up shapes and gemstones for an interesting effect. Unusual cuts are a big part of his work, and a background in science and engineering add to the fine lines and sculptural forms. The DNA-like ring, below, is real showstopper. Great to see some other up-and-coming designers in this category, including La Diosa, FSA and the dazzling Lauren Adriana.

Rings for Alexander Davis' 'Dendritic' Collection.
Images courtesy of alexanderdavisjewellery.com

Designer of the Year - Shaun Leane

Oh Shaun. Here you are again! He's becoming a British institution when it comes to the Jewellery Awards and really with Sarah Herriot, Alex Monroe and Bobby White all vying for the prize, it's surprising that a different name didn't take it home. Shaun's Cherry Blossom collection really sums up his style - pretty yet edgy - and has been highly coveted during 2010. I do look forward to seeing with what he comes up with next...

Ring and earrings from Shaun Leane's 'Cherry Blossom' collection.
Image courtesy of shaunleane.com

PS. The official photos haven't been released yet, but when they do I'll put some up

A little something: Laura Lee 'Love Unites Us' signet ring

2010-07-13T17:01:00.000+01:00

I've always adored Laura Lee, and it's been a little while since I've written about her. Laura's gorgeous shop in Covent Garden is an absolute treasure trove and with the addition of Becca jewellery last year, her little shop is great for unusual jewellery, not to mention Laura's personal design service. But yes, these super pretty 'Love Unites Us' rings are a Laura Lee classic and a longstanding favourite of mine. Shown here in gold plated silver and sterling silver, and engraved with the French 'L'Amour Nous Unite', they're complete and utter romance in a ring.

L'Amour Nous Unite ring, by Laura Lee. Image courtesy of Laura Lee

A little something: Daydream Nation for Peter Jensen

2010-07-11T12:19:00.000+01:00

Pretty splash of colour and soft crochet detail make these two necklaces by Daydream Nation rather lovely summer treats. The first is called the Octopus necklace (cute, eh) and the second the Metamorphosis necklace, because rather wonderfully you can detach the pearl section and wear it as a bracelet... Head to Kabiri to snap them up in their summer sale.

Images courtesy of kabiri.co.uk

EC One Unsigned Graduate jewellery competition

2010-07-08T15:37:00.001+01:00

A little bit of news for anyone graduating this year from a jewellery or design degree who hopes to pursue a career in jewellery design - there's a great competition on-going until September at EC One in London. Called EC One Unsigned, they're offering one winner their own shelf space this Christmas (the busiest time of year for any jewellers), along with design advice, PR and marketing and paid costs for pieces that sell.

All you have to do is enter on thier Facebook page by uploading an image and writing 100 words about the influences behind the design or collection. Pretty good, can't wait to see who wins...! See here for all the details.

Zoe & Morgan One-Day Sale

2010-07-06T21:06:00.001+01:00

Last Wednesday the lovely girls at Zoe & Morgan organised a one-day pop up super sale, a chance to snap up present and past collections at fabulous prices, to meet the faces behind the designs and of course see the various collections side-by-side, from early designs featuring Bamboo canes to the sell-out Love Lasso ring...

A quirky shopfront, featuring cut-out cardboard girls draped in Z&M

Brazilian charm necklaces, far and second right, with some of the gent's designs

A selection of earrings

Ruth, the younger sister of Zoe & Morgan, who works for the brand in London

Held a stones throw from Euston station, my lovely friend Hannah who works for Z&M sent me a text halfway through the day, saying she hoped there would be pieces left for me to see - and photograph - knowing that I was hot-footing it from work to Euston before the sale ended at 7pm. Luckily for me, there were some goodies left (not so lucky for my bank account), despite Hannah telling me of the queue outside the door before they'd even opened at 10am! Just goes to show how unusual - and coveted - Zoe & Morgan designs are!

Hannah selling, selling, selling!

My cheeky buy of the day - the silver Sugar Skull ring. Actually from the gent's collection,
I've had it made several sizes smaller to fit! Love him; reminds of like the Misfits skull!

The band is a rose stem, complete with little thorns and rose detail on the sides

A little something: New Month, Same Philosophy...

2010-07-03T21:07:00.000+01:00

Last month I wrote about Lindsay Pearson, specifically her 'YES' engraved necklace, which from the moment I saw it I fell in love with. With its positive message it's the perfect talisman for everyday, a little memento to have and to wear, to touch while deep in thought or - when you catch your reflection - a reminder that saying 'Yes' is rather a good thing. Eeek, I now have my very own necklace (thank you Lindsay!) and hopefully I won't take it off for a while... Especially because it looks so lovely with my little trio of Becca Jewellery charms. <3

Silver 'YES' engraved necklace, by Lindsay Pearson

Simple but effective!

Lindsay Pearson 'YES' necklace, alongside Becca's Rabbit & Crown charm, engraved Pia Face and Hello Petal charm.
(I put the Becca charms on my own chain)

A little something: Found Bath

2010-07-02T15:42:00.001+01:00

Eeek it's be a little while since I've written but I've been building up a few bits and pieces to write about soon... It's all about the photos you see! Anyhow, last weekend in a little jaunt back home and to the wonders of Glastonbury (the beauty of a Sunday-only ticket means big final show and clean clothes!) I discovered a lovely new shop in Bath called Found. This new addition sits alongside Bath's rather scenic Pulteney Bridge, and is a cross between Magma in Covent Garden and The Hambledon in Winchester... Lomo cameras, gorgeous prints, pretty clothes and homeware... and jewellery!

These goodies are from Japanese designer Ease, and are exclusive to Found in the UK. So exclusive in fact that I've struggled to find Ease online... Still the Playground Ring, below, is a see-saw inspired beauty - check out the video. Found is definitely worth a look if you're in Bath at all, while their website should be up and running in the next couple of months.

Playground Rings from Found Bath on Vimeo.

A little something: My vintage jewels featured on Adorn London

2010-06-22T21:21:00.000+01:00

Last week Juliet from Adorn London got in touch to ask whether I could send through some photos and a bit of history about my favourite pieces of vintage jewellery for Adorn's vintage fortnight. I had a few choices; the first - my Mum's amazing charm bracelet - was all the way back home in Bath... but then I remembered my lovely silver ingot 'handed-down' (sneakily lifted) from my Mum's jewels, but now a regular feature around my neck on its long heavy-weight chain.

My Mum's silver ingot from 1977

The other favourite of mine is my great-Grandmother's wedding ring, made in a beautifully warm 22ct gold. You can read the little histories about both pieces on the Adorn London site here. Some great pieces from the other contributors, too, especially Lucy's Christian Dior coin necklace and Suzi's engraved silver cuff.

My great-Grandmother's 22ct gold ring from 1948

A little something: nOir Esme ring

2010-06-21T22:35:00.001+01:00

I've been a fan of American jewellery brand nOir for a little while... Mostly because I've been meaning to write a blog post about a particular collection of theirs for months. I really will get around to it soon..! In the meantime, I just spotted this wench-worthy gem - the Esme sword ring. Double fingers rings are a mini obsession of mine at the moment, and this one pretty much ticks every box. Shiver me timbers and yep, pass the rum!

nOir's Esme sword ring Images courtesy of noirjewelry.com

Alexis Bittar wins Accessory Designer of the Year

2010-06-17T14:20:00.000+01:00

A quick post today, as the wonderful Alexis Bittar has won the CFDA award for Accessory Designer of the Year. I'm a bit of an Alexis fan, and although my budget mostly stretches to the more modest of his collections, I'm always in awe of what he does - and was especially pleased to find him in Maia Adam's wonderful Fashion Jewellery book which came out earlier this year.

Alexis with his award. Image courtesy of alexisbittar.com

Wearing a couple of my AB slim lucite bangles
(sorry for the posey pic, was for Adorn London!)

So, a big congrats to Alexis - take a peek at the Alexis Bittar blog for some of his own photos from what looks like a brilliant night.

Alexis and his Dad! Image courtesy of alexisbittar.com

Alexis' date was Iris Apfel. Image courtesy of alexisbittar.com

Designer: Polli Australia

2010-06-15T13:55:00.003+01:00

So you might have picked up on my animal obsession..? Favourites include whippets, daschunds, tapirs, most of the corvid family, cats in all forms... and many, many more beyond... I'm also a sucker for helping out any little bug or spider who's trapped, often shouting 'Don't kill it!!' even if it is a monster house spider or ugly Bluebottle. Recently thinking I was coming to the aid of a little black beetle in my bath, I sadly realised I was in fact saving a bit of sock fluff from in-between the boyf's toes. That'll learn me...

Gold 'Hoot' earrings. Image courtesy of polli.com.au

Maja Rose and Tess Lloyd, the designer behind Polli

So again, in a brilliantly round-about way, this brings me to the stunning animal jewels of Polli, an Australian design duo who make in stainless steel and silver. Taking influence from Danish and Japanese paper cut-outs, Polli's necklaces and earrings catch the light in a way which shows off the simple yet detailed etched designs. And although animals aren't the only thing on their roster (Terraced house necklace, anyone? Bow earrings?), there are some real treats...

Gold 'Flock' necklace and earrings. Image courtesy of polli.com.au

The Lyre Bird earrings got me smiling - recalling that brilliant David Attenborough video - as did the sausage dog necklace. Cute, cute, cute! Available in London at the Southbank Centre shop and at Brighton's Silverado.

'Lyre Bird' earrings. Image courtesy of polli.com.au

The 'Dash' necklace. Image courtsy of polli.com.au

Nicholas King & Fiona Paxton Evening at EC One

2010-06-14T14:40:00.001+01:00

So, here they are - a collection of lovely snaps from last week's designer event at EC One, celebrating the new collections from Nicholas King and Fiona Paxton. The shop was buzzing on the night, with a lovely mix of customers and fellows bloggers trying and buying - I had a quick chat with Fiona from Save Our Shoes, who bought some of Nicholas' flat Crown Bangles (as featured in my Spikes and Studs post last year), going on my promise that they glow under UV light. Good reason for sure!

I know, I'm such a geek..! With my two Nicholas King Crown bangles

Fiona's gorgeous rail of necklaces

Fellow blogger Becky modelling Nicholas' Diamante Knot cuff

It was great to see the new pieces by Fiona, too. I 'modelled' her Trent necklace on the night - a gorgeous silver- and gunmetal-tone chainmail necklace, which hung in what I can only describe as 'swathes' around the neck. EC One's Maia modelled the studded Geneva necklace, while my favourite piece by Fiona had to be her Dolly necklace in silver and black, funnily enough modelled on EC One's own 'Dolly' mannequin!

Maia in the Geneva necklace

The Dolly necklace

Nicholas' brilliant pieces also caused a stir, with ladies clamouring to try on his heavy cuffs. The real winners were definitely the Diamante Flower cuff, below, and the classic Diamante Knots in both clear resin and black-based resin. Find more photos on the EC One facebook page.

Ladies trying on Nicholas' Diamante Knot and Diamante Flower cuffs, more styles below

Nicholas and Fiona's array of work

A little something... Michal Lerman necklace

2010-06-13T20:53:00.001+01:00

I walk past Wolf & Badger on London's Ledbury Road twice a day - to and from work - and still find myself yet to go in. Still, the store's concept of more or less renting shelf space to designers is forward-thinking and means the products are ever-evolving and fresh. Having a little nose on the Wolf & Badger site today, I spotted the 'Abanico' necklace by Michal Lerman. Made from gold plated silver, this striking necklace mimics an unfurled fan, while also looking a little like a clowns ruff. Make sure you check our Michal's 'Afrodita' hoops, too. <3

Michal Lerman's Abanico necklace

Like Gold Dust has a little makeover

2010-06-11T13:52:00.000+01:00

Regular readers may note that the blog has had a little re-jig and has a new design... pretty eh? There's bound to be a few teething problems with photo sizes etc. etc. but all being good, things will be back to speed shortly. Next up, a post about last night''s Nicholas King & Fiona Paxton evening, and my visit to Treasure!
Kx

Nicholas King & Fiona Paxton evening at EC One

2010-06-05T10:43:00.002+01:00

Next week is London Jewellery Week which, as I'm sure you'd imagine, is quite big on my calendar. On Thursday 10th I'm heading to EC One jewellery in Clerkenwell, a stones throw from Hatton Garden and the hub of the action at Treasure in Holborn. EC One will be hosting an evening for two designers still new(ish) on the scene but already making big waves.

Nicholas King designs chunky, yummy cuffs and bangles in resin, which are handcarved and shaped meaning each one is a little bit different. The quirk, however, is that inside the resin are submerged treasures from diamante knots, to old watch faces, sequins and ribbons. The effect from the shaped resin is almost like looking at a Bridget Riley - it has to be seen to be believed.

Pyramid Stud cuff

UFO Disco bangle

Fiona Paxton's jewellery nods to ancient beadworking skills, played out in contemporary styles. She'll be showcasing her new collection at EC One; it's futuristic, a little bit tribal and a little bit deco. I love her spikey beaded 'Jess' collar and the chain tassles which are a theme across her necklaces and earrings. They shimmer and shake as you move which makes wearing them with jeans a tshirt (to which they're actually really suited!) immediately glamorous.

'Jess' collar in gold

'Paris' earrings in bronze

Check out my attempt at modelling Fiona's Berlin earring at work the other day... Aaah!!

A little something: New month, new philosophy

2010-06-03T16:48:00.001+01:00

The poor girl has to put up with me at work most days, but Lindsay Pearson is an absolute gem of a girl, and luckily for me creates jewels which I looooove! Soon to grace my neck will be Lindsay's 'YES' necklace. A word so short yet so positive, on a pendant so simple that wearing it everyday is pretty much guaranteed. you see, good things only happen when you say yes...

Keep an eye on Like Gold Dust for me announcing her new website launch, or read more or Lindsay's blog

Designer: Brokenfab

2010-05-31T21:46:00.003+01:00

A few weeks back while doing some research for Adorn London, I came across Brokenfab jewellery (aka Fabienne Morel) a Swiss textiles designer now dipping her toe in the world of jewellery design. Drawn by the the mad, clashing colours I decided to have a closer look...

Fabienne Morel, aka Brokenfab.

Image courtesy of myspace.com/fabiennemorel

Taking her inspiration from African tribal jewellery and the colours, shapes and styles seen across London clubs, Fabienne's jewellery exemplifies popular culture through the unusual use of colourful, striking beadwork.

Pyramid Neckpiece, by Brokenfab

Unique Neckpiece, by Brokenfab

Pyramid Beaded Earrings, by Brokenfab

The jewellery is said to express influential musical genres in a visual, wearable form; dubstep, disco, electro, soul and detroit house. The shapes and geometry featured in the jewellery - triangles, zig-zags and criss crossing - allow Brokenfab's designs to clash and jarr, creating 'high-energy designs'. Pretty much in love with every piece she does; I'm especially drawn to the Rocket Necklace, below, something about the tassles and cute pastel colours... Aaah!

Rocket Neckpiece, by Brokenfab

Beaded Pyramid earrings, by Brokenfab

Oria: 18ct gold Star collection

2010-05-25T21:23:00.001+01:00

With ethical jewellery ever-growing and a demand for luxury jewellery with a conscience, it's great to see that Oria have just launched a new 18ct gold collection to complement their already established Bibbi and Nina collections.

Designs from the new Star collection

18ct gold Star ring, set with a diamond

Featuring elegent star shapes and ethically-sourced white diamonds, the Star collection consists of stacking rings, simple pendants and pretty studs - perfect for everyday wear. The designers behind Oria - Tania Kowalski and Synnove Saelthun - are two lovely and talented ladies with great design ideas up their sleeves and a brilliant history in jewellery. Can't wait to see what they come out with next (their silver collections are already a hit with me!)

18ct gold Star studs

18ct gold Circling Star necklace

Tania Kowalski and Synnove Saelthun or Oria

Joanna Cave for Partimi

2010-05-18T22:12:00.002+01:00

Lovely news today, spotting that Joanna Cave has joined forces with ethically aware British clothing label Partimi. The result is a beautiful collection of jewellery and clothes that's eye-catching yet environmentally conscious.

While I've written about Joanna's work here previously, noting her use of recycled metals and ethically-sourced gemstones, her partnership with Partimi (aka Eleanor Dorrien-Smith, a 2008 CSM graduate) is something new and exciting for both designers. Eleanor notes "I want Partimi to be part of of a fashion industry that discards 'throwaway society'".

Producing designs which are alluring and timeless, I really love this collaboration. Joanna's base in Athens is always recognisable in the shapes and finish of her work, while Eleanor's collection is inspired by ageing Ballet Russes costumes owned by her grandmother - beautiful from a distance but frayed here and there, repaired yet lovingly worn when studied up close.

Designer: Yayoi Forest

2010-05-17T21:14:00.002+01:00

I stumbled upon Yayoi Forest via Not Couture's link to the lovely US jewellery site CatBird. Entranced by the ethereal feel of the jewellery I decided to look Yayoi up, and discovered a magical world of dainty, detailed 14ct gold a silver jewellery.

Silver Knot Ring

Currently based in Brooklyn but originally from Kyoto, Japan, Yayoi Inada's jewellery is influenced by her upbringing close to a forest; the sounds, smells and touch of the woodland, from falling rain to the rough of tree bark.

Twinkle Crescent Moon necklace, in silver

From pendants engraved with owls and stars, to delicate rings studded with little diamonds, Yayoi's designs are a little mythical, a little rustic, but beautifully charming.

14ct gold ring set with 7 white diamonds

A little something: Guest blog post on Adorn London: Tribal Jewels

2010-05-13T13:13:00.004+01:00

Another quick post as I've written a guest blog post on Adorn London this week. This time the focus is on summery, tribal jewellery. Seed beads are big news; the brighter and more colourful the better. Amen to that!

A little something: Love From Hetty & Dave Pussycat brooches

2010-05-11T23:17:00.001+01:00

Aww. Doesn't it feel like the weekend should be here already? With it being annoyingly cold I feel very much like cosying up on the sofa to watch Pretty in Pink (any excuse, seriously). But oddly, these little cat brooches by Love From Hetty & Dave make me feel like smiling lots... Because they make me want to go home and see my darling cat Oscar (aka Boo, Bosks, Babies). Poor thing...

Hand-stitched leather cat brooches... aw!

Leopard-print version!

Me and Oscar!

Erickson Beamon sample sale

2010-05-09T14:26:00.001+01:00

Next Sunday make sure you get up bright and early and head to Elizabeth Street in Pimlico, for a very special sample sale at the Erickson Beamon store. With a star-studded line up of jewellery designers including Holly Fulton, Fiona Paxton, Laura Lee and Lucy Hutchings there's going to be plenty of gorgeous goodies on offer. And with all proceeds going to Made Africa (as written about last week), it's going to feel even better splashing out on that little something special.

Find it on a map here

Alex Monroe's Charity Bicycle Necklaces

2010-05-05T17:12:00.003+01:00

We all love Alex Monroe, whether its his classic Bumblebee necklace, his recent Watering Can, his Love Birds ring or his new 18ct gold collection... His designs keep getting cuter, more detailed and more meaningful.

18ct gold Raleigh Jeep Necklace, by Alex Monroe

So I was very excited this week to find out about a special auction and bike ride which Alex is taking part in for the charity Fight for Sight, which researches the causes and prevention of blindness.

For the auction Alex has hand-made two one-of-a-kind 18ct gold bicycle necklaces, one based on a classic 1980s Bianchi men's racing bike and the other a ladies' 1975 Raleigh Jeep. Not only are they both diamond and ruby-set but the little wheels go around! Lovely.

18ct gold 1980s men's Bianchi bike, with diamond and ruby 'lights'

The necklaces in question will be auctioned off between now and July 19th, with the highest bidders receiving one of these gorgeous designs. In the meantime, Alex and two friends are cycling from Lands End to John O'Groats - very impressive! For the rest of us, for whom cycling gets us to work and back (or in my case, just to work, where my bicycle has lain dormant since February!) we can still donate from behind our computer screens. Read more about the charity, the bike ride and the necklaces here.

Raleigh Jeep bike in 18ct gold, with diamond and ruby 'lights'

A little something: Selim Mouzannar rings

2010-05-03T20:50:00.004+01:00

I don't often write about super 'precious' jewellery; diamonds, platinum, those things which cost big bucks... But now and again the time comes and the UK arrival of Lebanese designer Selim Mouzannar is definitely worth a mention. As the newest addition to EC One's repertoire of British and international designers, Selim combines gorgeous pastel-hued sapphires with the sparkle of white and brown diamonds. The style of the setting and the playful colourways remind me of little macaroons or fairy cakes. But then there are the stunning pave-set diamond rings, below, which add a serious, chic slant to Selim's style.

18ct Rose gold pave-set diamond rings, by Selim Mouzannar at EC One

18ct rose gold ring set with old-cut oval white sapphires and diamonds

Made using 18ct rose gold (super on-trend in jewellery at the mo) and a mix of old-cut, rose cut, new and antique stones, Selim's rings are the perfect cross-over, combining a heritage influence in the design, with a clean modern setting inspired by the arches of the architecture in his hometown, Beirut. Watch this space, as I'm sure I'll be writing more about Selim soon!

Amethyst and cognac diamond ring, by Selim Mouzannar at EC One

Sun is shining with LauraLaura

2010-04-27T14:08:00.002+01:00

Blue skies! London has had some glorious weather these past weeks; as I walked to the tube station this morning the tulips were towering high, heads of red, pink, yellow and orange. A little bit of something tropical (and Dutch) had hit Bethnal Green, and made me feel pretty drab in my black jeans and oversized shirt. Still, LauraLaura's bangles are the perfect antidote to feeling dull; I've featured her jewellery before on Like Gold Dust, and feel 'tis definitely the season again!

Ps. Check out Laura's knitwear too... there's some pieces en Francais, which I am rather in love with!

Set of 3 Betsy and Emmeline bangles, by Laura Laura

A little something: Made's Hasina necklace

2010-04-26T14:25:00.005+01:00

It's lunchtime, and chance to get a quick post out having spotted this striking necklace on Made's site. All of the jewellery sold by Made is designed by influential names, with the materials sourced and the jewellery made entirely in East Africa. Then sold through Made, the profits give the makers a fair wage and help them break from the cycle of poverty. It's a big scheme, but one which has been working well for several years now.

The Hasina necklace is a great example of the pieces you can expect from Made. Designed by Pippa Small for the MU (Made Unique) collection, the necklace is 9ct gold plated brass, with recycled glass beads. Kind of tribal, kind of like little petals. Lovely!

Made Unique's 'Hasina' Necklace, designed by Pippa Small. Images courtesy of Made UK

A little something: Jewellery By Boe

2010-04-25T22:58:00.000+01:00

Today has been a lazy day, so today will be a quick blog post to fit with my mood. Strangely it's been the London Marathon which means for many, their day has been the entire opposite of mine. Back to the jewellery however, I'm finally writing having spotted By Boe's jewellery a few weeks back and then noticing it crop up in a few magazines. So long overdue, here's a brief account of all things gorgeous from this American jewellery designer.

Heart Necklace on 16" chain

Founded in 2000, By Boe is a jewellery collection by Annika and Philipe Salame, originally made and sold in Annika's workshop in New York's Upper East Side, and today found the world over. Mixing Annika and Philipe's Scandinavian roots with a love for architecture, Saudi Arabian dressmaking and Parsons educations, their designs are quirky, dainty and very covetable indeed.

Knotted Green Leather Ring

Oval Frame Ring

Made in sterling silver and 14ct gold fill (silver with a fine layer of gold rolled over the top), the jewellery is the most affordable I have seen for a time, but of course that's not everything. The styling is simple - bows, circles, squares, knots, alphabet letters, flowers and chains. It's super delicate but perfect for layering up - pretty much everything the jewellery in New York has been about recently, and something I've noticed has crossed the pond to London.

Long 'Alfabet' Necklace - on 29" chain

Plum Petal Trio Necklace

I'm not a big earrings person, but By Boe's are - like the rest of their designs - wearable. Whether bridal or day wear, the shapes are everything. Simple studs or daring, lengthy drop earrings, I could probably have any of these and be happy! Shop in the UK at Red Ruby Rouge - I'll be keeping an eye out for most stockists, for sure!

Stacked Sphere Earrings

Tiny Double Oval Earrings

A little something: Grace Kelly's jewellery style on Adorn London

2010-04-22T20:42:00.007+01:00

Another blog post written for Adorn London, this time to coincide with the V&A's brilliant new exhibit celebrating the life and style of the inimitable Grace Kelly.

Grace wearing her 10.47ct Emerald-cut diamond engagement ring. Image courtesy of Watch Avenue

Jewellery was a large part of Grace Kelly's life, both in marriage and her film roles (consider To Catch a Thief), and the new exhibit gives a glimpse into the grandeur of Grace's style. Beautiful dresses, her own Kelly bag, and sunglasses in all shapes and sizes. Of course the jewellery was what interested me and what the Adorn blog post is all about. Read it in full here, or book tickets for the V&A exhibition here.

Grace Kelly, photographed by Virgil Apger. Image courtesy of AliceJapan

Designer: Lua Lua

2010-04-18T21:43:00.004+01:00

Lua Lua's jewellery designs make me happy; bright colours, geometric shapes, attitude and beauty. Made by Justyna Niewiara, a History of Art student turned jewellery designer, the collections merge the tactile nature of perspex with sterling silver, creating futuristic yet wearable designs, vivid in colour and clean in line...

Justyna Niewiara, the designer behind Lua Lua

Cosmos Bangle in silver and perspex, by Lua Lua

Large Black Triangle necklace, by Lua Lua

The first thing that drew me to Lua Lua's designs was the necklace, below, which - in its rainbow colours and sharp shape - reminded me of a modern-day ruff collar. Kind of jester-like, summery, fun. The simple perspex forms are only accentuated by the bold primary colours. All you need is a black or white tshirt, some beaten, old hi-tops and the look's pretty much done.

Multi-colour Perspex Tutti Frutti collar, by Lua Lua

To see more of Lua Lua this summer, Justyna will be at Treasure jewellery show during London Jewellery Week in June. Her pieces can also been found at the Tate Modern, as part of the Van Doesburg and the International Avant-Garde exhibition. You can also shop online here.

Designer: Coco Kato

2010-04-03T13:20:00.002+01:00

I've been wiling away the hours recently with lots of books; something I go through phases with. I might not read for six months, and then consume 5 or 6 books in half that time. The one I'm reading at present - Brooklyn by Colm Toibin - is the beautifully written story of Eilis, a young girl who leaves her small Irish home town for 1950s America. She lands a job in an Italian clothing store, where the customers, their clothes, those worn by her sister and her housemates are all richly described. As a result, I keep thinking back to Madame Bovary, a book which delights in detailing the silks, lace, embroidery and fine leathers which Emma Bovary finds herself insatiably drawn to...

Flowering Pearl necklace, by Coco Kato. Image courtesy of Coco Kato

So in a round about way, this brings me to Coco Kato (aka Ikuko Kato), a London-based designer who uses silks and fabrics in her jewellery to create elegant, playful and versatile pieces that you could probably spend hours just touching, running through your fingers and ultimately admiring. A little reminiscent of those Degas paintings...

Flowering Pearl necklace, with silk ribbon and Japanese pearls, by Coco Kato. Image courtesy of Coco Kato.

Flowering Basket hoop earring, made with silk and Japanese pearl.s Image courtesy of Coco Kato.

Flowering Pearl necklace in grey and sky blue, with white Japanes pearls. Image courtesy of Coco Kato.

Ikuko's use of pearls exemplifies her Japanese heritage and upbringing, adding to the sugary sweetness of her work. Her use of mixed materials and has won her the accolade of ‘Designer of the Year’ from the Bunka Fashion College in Tokyo. Perfect with a pastel dress, but no doubt just as fabulous with old Converse and a grey jersey tee...