How did you get your start in the jewellery industry?
When I was 21, I found a ring-making course in Hatton Garden. At the time, I felt I lacked creativity in my life and that course changed everything for me. Later, I discovered an enamel ring at London’s V&A Museum, and thought, ‘that looks like a tattoo, but on jewellery,’ and I became obsessed with this concept.
What’s your connection with tattoos?
My father used to be a deep-sea diver, and he’s got lots of tattoos. We’re just a family of tattooed people. I’m covered in fine lines, cute little snakes and hearts.
How would you describe your personal style?
I’d say “girly sweetness”. We’re talking ribbons and frills and dresses. I love designers like Molly Goddard, Simone Rocha and Sandy Liang. Anything that makes me feel adorable.
Any other wardrobe essentials?
Miu Miu pumps, Reformation cashmere cardigans and white Skims T-shirts.
What’s the key to unwinding after a long day?
I’m addicted to romantasy novels, like Fourth Wing. It’s pure escapism. I unwind with a glass of wine and some reading, which makes me feel like I’m from the olden times.
Who or what most inspires you?
My granny, who is no longer with us. She’s the inspiration for everything I do. She lived on the Moorlands in Devon and led a hippy, magical life, full of Full Moon rituals. She was so in tune with nature.
Where is your favourite place in the world?
Devon, where I grew up. It has a windswept, rugged and witchy quality that is all-encompassing.
Which books, films or works of art are essential to you?
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, because it reminds me of Devon. The film Titanic, because I’m a sucker for romance – I’m actually making a Titanic-inspired ring for myself right now, with an engraved ship and the ‘Heart of the Ocean’ necklace on it. I also love visiting The Wallace Collection for inspiration. Renaissance paintings really get me going.
Which pieces of jewellery do you wear every day?
I designed a ring for myself with a miniature version of my cat, Lucky, on it and it makes me so happy. That, my engagement ring, and my granny’s wedding band.
The ‘pinch me’ moment from your career so far?
Having my jewellery on display in the Liberty shop windows in London, because my granny used to dress those same windows in the 1960s. And custom making a ring for Taylor Swift with her cat on it. That was insane.
What are you working on next?
We’ve just launched a collection called Triptych inspired by the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch. I’ve also recently designed a pair of rings for the Fanning Sisters, which was a ‘bucket list’ moment.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Always trust your gut.
Like this? Check out “Time really is precious”: Aaron Taylor-Johnson on fatherhood, feeling exposed as an actor, and being part of the OMEGA family and see the History of Pandora Charms: From a 1982 Copenhagen Goldsmith to a Global Icon.
