I first connected with Jeremy back in 2021, when I discovered his truly unique and beautiful art. As a lifelong bookworm and ring lover, his technique immediately spoke to me—after all, it embodied two of my greatest passions: books and rings. Since then, I’ve shared his incredible work many times. He took part in my Questionnaire project in 2022, and most recently, when I shared the most-liked rings from the past five years to celebrate my page’s anniversary, one of his creations reached over 2.9 million views (the ring shown above) It is very much on my bucket list to one day commission a ring from Jeremy, made from my favorite book in the world: Contact , by Carl Sagan. And although rings are my thing, Jeremy also creates the most unique earrings, bracelets, pendants, necklaces, brooches and sculptures. You can see it all on his website (by clicking on his name below). JEREMY MAY I have been fascinated by paper for nearly 20 years. To me, paper holds a unique quality—not only does it carry narrative and knowledge, but it can also be transformed into a material that renders these narratives wearable. I work predominantly with secondhand books as my material source. The book, both as a used object and as a bearer of stories, is my direct inspiration and a central element in how I create one-off jewels. I am endlessly intrigued by the individuality of each used book, the traces of its past readers—the folded pages, makeshift bookmarks, notes in the margins. From the beginning, I have sought to create unique pieces. Each book is an individual object, and therefore each jewel must be equally individual. After reading a book, I choose a direct quote that captures its essence for me. I then envision its form, colour, and appearance, sketching the idea on paper before I begin sculpting the book itself. In this way, the book becomes ‘unreadable,’ yet its story remains intact, carried within the jewel. Each jewel is impossible to replicate. Its beauty runs deep within the piece: text and image pass all the way through the material, revealed only at the surface. Over the years, I have had the honor of exhibiting my work in prestigious venues around the world, with several pieces now part of museum collections. I created my very first paper ring in September 2007, and by January 2009 my literary jewels were being introduced to the public. What began as a personal exploration has since transformed paper into a medium that aspires to last and to bring joy, color, and love to all who value sustainability. Today, I continue to work on private commissions while developing themed collections of jewels that are presented in exhibitions worldwide. I live and work in London, always pushing forward with each new piece, driven by a thirst for discovery, uniqueness, and the sublime. @jeremymayjewels

Born in London from Karoline Healy’s vision, H₂ERǴ is a jewelry brand that looks to the past and the future at once. Drawing on science, history, and the quiet beauty of natural forms, each piece is crafted in recycled silver and ethical materials — jewelry that shines with both meaning and care. When I first saw her work I was intrigued and mesmerized – the concept, the process and the research that goes into her work is simply amazing. Here is her story! H₂ERǴ - KAROLINE HEALY I learned the basics of jewelry during a semester of my degree course at Nottingham Trent University here in the UK. Quite a few years had passed before I decided to pick up the tools again. I then started practicing what I already learned and then developing new skills like stone settings, delft casting & wax work through trial and error, watching YouTube and tips from online blogs.  For years, I had been working as a materials researcher in the design & architecture industry, so I have always been inquisitive to uncovering the latest innovations, new technologies, looking to understand regenerative material flows, and sustainability.  I had become obsessed with New Scientist magazine, and science in general. I wanted a creative outlet to explore the ideas, concepts and forms found in science, nature and the universe. So I set up my jewelry brand H₂ERǴ, the aim was to use craft and making to explore future concepts.  My first collection was called Natural Basics. It was a speculation on a future where me might be able use biotechnologies and altered nature to grow metals into everyday day jewelry. I made a chain with links that are inspired by roots and hoop earrings by microscopic filamentous structures from mycelium called hyphae.  My work draws inspiration from a wide range of sources; natural growth formations like plant tendrils, animals and microorganisms, surrealism, antique German ironwork & ancient forged throwing knives My work always centers on the materials, so looking at what is next.  Aside from jewelry collection and bespoke commissions, I have been working on my ongoing research project Future Metals.  This is a long-term investigation where I my goal is to make the most sustainable gold ring to exist. I am exploring regenerative & biological methods, bio mining, to recover precious metals for jewelry. In collaboration with Phyona I made a ring using metals mined by plants, the process is called Phytomining. Phyona are biology start up from the UK who are using plants to mine metals from contaminated soils and landscapes. My ring contains a rich mix of metals like silver, titanium, lead, nickel, copper, and zinc, which was recovered from the polluted soils of historical mining site in Barnsley. The plants suck up metals from the soil, through their roots into the leaves and stems. The plants are then harvested and the metallic compounds recovered. These miners are native species of plants like foxgloves, thistles and grasses. In addition, beyond this I am looking to collaborate with other scientists working with bacteria to recover precious metals from local waste streams.   @h2erg_jewellery

Sanaz and I connected over four years ago, and it’s been a true joy to witness her work receive the recognition it so deeply deserves. Originally from Iran, she has lived all around the globe before settling in Toronto—a city I hold dear—back in 2021. Her pieces are rooted in her cultural heritage, and her distinctive voice in jewelry is both delicate and powerful, architectural and sinuous. Her work has been shown around the world during jewelry weeks and has earned prestigious awards—testament to the strength and poetry she brings to each piece. I am so happy to share her story and some of her beautiful creations today. SANAZ DOOST I left my motherland all by myself when I was 19 to study abroad, explore the world, and, in many ways, find myself. Since then, I’ve lived across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and now North America. Along the way, I studied in different countries and universities—each experience shaping how I see the world and how I create. Travel remains an essential part of who I am. I truly can’t imagine life without immersing myself in different cultures, traditions, and art forms—it continues to nourish my curiosity and design philosophy. My introduction to jewelry began with traditional craftsmanship. I first trained in the Grand Bazaar of Shiraz, learning fundamentals using old-world tools like the low-flame torch and foot-powered bellows. Later, while living in Istanbul for a year, I continued my goldsmithing studies in the city’s historic Grand Bazaar. I then completed my traditional training in Kuala Lumpur, working closely with Southeast Asian masters and refining my technique during the nearly decade I lived in Southeast Asia. After completing my Master of Philosophy of Art, I moved to Toronto to pursue an Advanced Diploma in Jewelry Arts—a three-year, studio-intensive program that gave me a strong technical foundation and space to develop my own voice as a designer. I also hold a Bachelor of Industrial Design, which continues to inform the structure, balance, and sculptural nature of my work. My designs blend cultural storytelling with contemporary form. Drawing from Eastern geometry, Silk Road symbolism, and poetic themes of light, transformation, and resilience, I create bold, architectural jewelry that resonates on both personal and universal levels. Blending East to West is who I am, and this dialogue of cultures is reflected in every piece. From the intricate lattice of the  Moshabak  collection to the symbolic elegance of the  Lotus  ring, each design is a reflection of heritage reimagined through a modern lens. I am deeply committed to producing my work locally in Toronto, supporting Canadian artisans—many of whom are women and immigrants like myself. Sustainability and ethical craftsmanship are at the heart of my practice. I prioritize sourcing natural, traceable gemstones and Canadian diamonds, and I strive to minimize waste through thoughtful design and production methods. Supporting local businesses and communities is not only a value but a responsibility I embrace fully. Looking ahead, I’m excited to grow a brand that honors these principles while expanding internationally. After showcasing at COUTURE in Las Vegas, I look forward to sharing jewelry that bridges cultures, craft, and identity with a global audience. @sanaz.doost

I first connected with Laurie over three years ago after discovering her page and instantly falling in love with her stunning rings. Since then, we’ve talked about jewelry, pets, loss, and shared more than a few laughs. It’s been a real pleasure following her work. Laurie has a distinctive style—her pieces feel like treasures from a chessboard, sometimes even like miniature architectural forms. I’m drawn to the clean lines, the masterful use of gemstones, and the quiet elegance in everything she creates. I’m thrilled to share her story with you today. LAURIE REID My inspiration is rooted in childhood. My father was an artist and educator; my mother, a gardener and lover of all things natural. I grew up one of five children in Eugene, Oregon, surrounded by a sense of wonder and curiosity. Both of my parents shared a love of art—whether it revealed itself in the woods, along the river, in the garden, in books, in music, or in visits to museums and galleries. They taught us to recognize the transformative power of art and the infinite beauty of the natural world. Each encouraged exploration in their own way. One of my earliest art memories comes from kindergarten, where I was completely obsessed with the color orange. I couldn’t get enough of it. The color affected me physically, viscerally. I would head straight for the painting corner during free play and lose myself in color. It was the beginning, I think, of my fascination with subtle relationships—between colors, textures, gestures. I felt this too as a young musician, in the attention required to tune an instrument to just the right tone. Those tiny adjustments—whether in sound, color, or touch—felt enormously significant to me. After graduating from Reed College with a degree in French Literature, I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where I taught French while continuing to make art. I earned an MFA in Drawing and Painting from California College of the Arts and went on to build a full and satisfying career as a working artist. My paintings are held in the permanent collections of The Museum of Modern Art, The Whitney Museum, the National Gallery, SFMOMA, the De Young Museum, and the Hammer Museum. My love of designing with gems and metal grew from the same place as my painting practice: a deep engagement with material, light, and form. Like that kindergartener captivated by color and paper, I find joy in the interaction between the hand, the mind, and the material world. I’m especially drawn to the way jewelry lives on the body, how it becomes a quiet extension of the self, influencing not only the wearer but those around her. I vividly remember my mother’s ring—lying in bed at night as she read to me, I would hold it in my fingers. It felt like a link, a luminous bridge between us. In August, I’m excited to be heading to New York to take part in  NY NOW , where I’ll be showing in the  Curated at Luxury Lifestyle  section. And next spring, I’m honored to be featured at  Bergdorf Goodman . @lfr_studios

Isabella and I first connected last year, bonded initially by her stunning cameo rings and other incredible creations—like the charming tiny purses and perfume bottles she transforms into pendants. Her unique talent for breathing new life into vintage pieces is truly extraordinary. Isabella has an impeccable eye for statement jewelry, which immediately captured my attention. Our conversations have gone beyond jewelry, touching on her frequent treasure-hunting trips across Europe, where she explores countless antique fairs. She has kindly invited me to visit her in Madrid—just a short trip from Toulouse! I’m hopeful I’ll be able to make that visit soon. Her passion shines through in her work, her beautiful store (which I also look forward to visiting next time I’m back home in São Paulo, Brazil), and the thoughtful way she curates her collections. I’m delighted to share her story with you today. ISABELLA BLANCO Isabella Blanco is a Brazilian jewelry designer and splits her time between Madrid and São Paulo :   I like to define my work as a gathering of research, curiosity, and passion. My inspiration comes from nearly 40 years immersed in the world of art and antiques—as a journalist, scholar, and collector. From my treasure-hunting travels around the world, I bring back finds from the Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and 1950s eras—the periods that fascinate me most.   My creations are made for those who seek originality and already possess every kind of jewel. For the past 16 years, I’ve been designing powerful pieces that go beyond “standard” norms, breaking away from the canons of traditional jewelry. My creations always begin with an antique item of artistic and historical value—authentic, rare pieces crafted by hand—and preferably, elements that are improbable, unexpected.   Antique perfume bottles turned into necklaces; cufflinks reborn as rings; belt buckles transformed into bracelets; and many other objects that have become trademarks of my work. To me, a classic can always be reinvented. It doesn’t need to remain stuck in the past. The cameo, for example—a traditional element in jewelry and one I use frequently in my collections—always appears through a contemporary lens.   Over the years, I’ve visited more than 40 countries, over 300 antique shops, dozens of antique fairs and auction houses across Europe, the United States, Africa, and Asia—many of which I visit regularly—always in search of new sources for treasure hunting and knowledge.  As Mário Quintana* once said, in what has become a kind of mantra for me: “I don’t have walls, I have horizons.”     * Mario Quintana was a Brazilian poet, writer, journalist, and prolific translator, also known as the “poet of simple things”. isabella blanco @isabellablancojoias

Kas and I first connected back in 2023 when he messaged me to say how much he enjoyed my page. When I checked out his work, I was blown away — truly unique, fun, and cheeky pieces that I instantly loved! His creations are full of character, featuring teeth, gold, gemstones, hands, and so much more. The creativity is off the charts — it’s really something else. I was thrilled to meet Kas in person during a quick stop in London last December. His atelier is incredible, filled with his striking pieces, and I even got to see the space where workshops are held. We chatted about jewelry, our roots, our children, and I tried on nearly every ring in sight — plus some unforgettable bracelets. It was an absolute treat. I'm so happy to share his story here today! KASUN EKANAYAKE - KASUN LONDON I was born in Sri Lanka, and in the mid-late 90s, my family moved to New Zealand to escape the Sri Lankan civil war and seek a more peaceful life. When we first arrived, I struggled with English, which made it hard to communicate with others. During school, I spent most of my lunchtimes in the art room — not because I was particularly interested in art at the time, but because it felt like a safe space. Ironically, it was in that space that I discovered my passion for creativity and visual expression. Art became a way for me to communicate when words were difficult.   As I progressed through school, I realized I wanted to pursue something in the creative field, but I also had a strong interest and aptitude in physics and math. This led me to consider several design-focused university paths: architecture, yacht design, and industrial design. I initially chose yacht design, largely influenced by a love for cars and design. However, after my first year, I realized my passion lay in creating a wider variety of products, so I transitioned to industrial design.   After graduating with a degree in industrial design, I was looking for any design-related opportunities. I came across a job ad in the newspaper for someone with 3D printing and CAD knowledge at a jewelry company. This was in the early 2000s, and 3D printing was still very new and expensive. I shared my university knowledge of 3D printing and wax modelling with the team, and in turn, they taught me everything about jewelry manufacturing. That experience sparked my deep interest in jewelry design.   After two years, I decided to travel. With a backpack and very little money, I explored the world for about eight months. When I reached the UK, I ran out of funds and started applying for jewelry design jobs. One of the roles I applied for — somewhat ambitiously — was a Head Designer position at a jewelry retailer in Leeds with two stores. To my surprise, I got the job. It was a significant jump, both in responsibility and salary, compared to what I had in New Zealand. During my time there, the business grew from 2 to 18 stores.   After four years, I was offered another Head Designer position at a different brand that offered more flexibility — only three days a week. That gave me the time and space to start working on my own brand, which I officially founded in 2011. It remained a side project until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. That period gave me clarity and the push I needed to commit full-time to my own label, and that’s where I am today — fully focused on growing my brand and continuing my journey as a jewelry designer. (p.s. from eliane - i'd like to ad the list of awards kas has been graced with as well!) Winner of Goldsmith’s Craft & Design Council Award 2024 Nominated for  ‘Jewellery Designer of the Year’   UK Jewellery Awards 2017 Selected as a ‘Trend Setter’ by Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2015 Winner of ‘Most Innovative Jewellery’ Award at International Jewellery London 2014 Winner of Goldsmith’s Craft & Design Council Award 2014 Nominated for  ‘New Designer of the Year’  UK Jewellery Awards 2013 Selected as  NexGem  by Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2013 Winner of Lonmin Design Innovation Award 2013 @kasunlondon

the mermaid's purse Eldoré’s work has fascinated me from day one. The first thing you see on her website is a phrase that feels like a personal mantra: “Beauty in Imperfection.”  I’m especially drawn to the way she weaves nature—particularly the ocean—into her pieces. Her whimsical mermaid purses  are pure magic and have firmly earned a place on my bucket list. Over time, we’ve bonded over the ongoing frustrations of Instagram (which can really test our patience!), her generous contributions to support the people of Ukraine, and, of course, her stunning, organic rings—which I’ve proudly shared many times. It’s incredible to have such a genuine connection with someone living in a culture and environment so different from mine. I haven’t yet had the chance to visit beautiful South Africa, but I’ve only ever heard glowing things about this unique country. It’s a true pleasure to share a glimpse into Eldoré’s world and showcase a few of her captivating creations today! ELDORÉ WOOD As a jewelry artist, my sculptural creations in silver and raw gemstones are deeply rooted in the textures, rhythms, and elemental beauty of my South African heritage. Each piece is a tactile expression of the natural world—organic forms shaped by the ocean’s relentless tide or the quiet resilience of the African bushveld. I work with materials in their raw and unrefined state, allowing their natural contours and imperfections to guide the design. My process is entirely hands-on—each piece is carved directly into silver rather than cast, making every creation a one-of-a-kind, limited edition work of art. This method ensures that no two pieces are ever exactly alike, imbuing each with a distinct soul and character. Growing up with the dual influence of the coast and the bush instilled in me a profound reverence for the wild. The intricate details of a shell, the curve of a horn, or the rugged surface of weathered rock often find their way into my designs, not as literal representations but as emotional impressions. These forms are not just decorative—they serve as visual reminders of the fragile balance of life in Africa’s wilderness. Through my jewelry, I aim to bring attention to the urgent need to protect and preserve these habitats and the extraordinary wildlife that call them home, many of which are increasingly under threat from human activity and environmental change. Equally important is the inspiration I draw from the ocean—the vast, mysterious force that has shaped not just coastlines, but cultures. My work often reflects the fluidity and raw power of the sea, with silver mimicking waves or seafoam, and gemstones glinting like sunlit water. By highlighting these marine influences, I seek to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation. From coral reefs to kelp forests, our oceans are vital ecosystems that sustain life on Earth, and my art is both an homage to their beauty and a call to action for their protection. @eldorewood

Stefania and I connected on Instagram about four years ago. I discovered her beautiful, deeply meaningful work and, of course, shared many of her pieces. When I planned my trip to London last December (which I mentioned in my Stories), she immediately reached out, suggesting it would be wonderful for us to meet. I wholeheartedly agreed, but unfortunately, my three short days were packed with art shows, studio visits, and time with family. We tried to make it happen, but it wasn't meant to be, and I was genuinely saddened that we never managed to sit down for a coffee. Still, we’ve remained in close contact, and I continue to share her unique and thoughtful work. I love it when rings inspire me — that’s one of the reasons I created this page: to inspire. Stefania’s work certainly does that, and she herself is such a sweet and generous soul. I truly hope we’ll finally meet in person one day to talk about jewelry, culture, and life. In the meantime, it’s a pleasure to share her rich story today. STEFANIA INDELICATO - AMBERSOUK JEWELLERY My journey into the world of jewellery didn't quite follow a traditional or linear route. Having completed a BA in Arabic Studies and an MA in Development Studies in London, jewellery was never on the cards as a career path. It had, however, always been an important part of my story. It influenced and shaped me more than I could have possibly ever known and imagined.    I grew up in an artistic and eclectic home and as a child, I would watch my mother return from the souk of Omdurman in Sudan with her hands full of treasures...Bedouin silver, amber beads, ancient agates, millefiori beads, and more. Each piece she brought home held a story, a whisper of the women who wore them before us, the spice routes, ancestral rituals, flavours of a nomadic past, all a thread tying us to a deeper heritage. Those early experiences left an imprint on me. Through my Mama I learned that jewellery could be more than adornment, it is a portal of heritage and identity and a window to the past. She taught me to love and appreciate the souk, and find beauty and purpose in everything. Even in the most humble pieces. I guess much of this, laid the foundation for my journey.   Years later in London, what became my adoptive home, I found myself drawn back to those same materials - amber with its warm, honeyed glow; ebony with its strong and majestic beauty; old silver etched with tribal symbols; colourful beads with mysterious pasts. With a deep yearning to stay connected to my home, Ambersouk was born.    My work is a fusion of cultures, an alchemy of East and West, and my aesthetic is intentionally tactile, organic, and steeped in storytelling. I am inspired by ancient African Bedouin adornment, the quiet strength of nomadic women, and the textures of the desert - weathered, elemental, and timeless. In every collection, from  Amber  to  Nubia  to  Badawi,  I try to honour the past while creating something that speaks to today’s woman: bold, thoughtful, and deeply connected to her roots. Jewellery as a Voice and a Legacy Now more than ever, especially in light of the war devastating Sudan, I feel a responsibility to keep telling our stories. Through my jewellery, I hope to educate and inspire - to shine light on a culture that is rich, layered, and too often overlooked. Each piece I make is a quiet act of resistance and remembrance. It says: we are still here. Our beauty, our strength, our legacy endures.  Beyond the jewellery, I am deeply passionate about creating social impact. I support  Kids for Kids , a charity doing vital work in Darfur (Sudan), helping communities access clean water, education, and sustainable livelihoods. My hope for Amberosouk is to be more than simply a brand, but a bridge between cultures, a celebration of heritage, and a force for good. Winning the JGAA (Jewellery & Gem Association of Africa) Award at GemGenève this year was an incredibly proud moment, and a reminder of how far this dream has come. As I look ahead, I am excited to expand my voice, through new collaborations, bespoke pieces, and exhibitions that amplify voices silenced by conflict.  Always, all with a deep love for the soul of Sudan. stefania indelicato @ambersoukjewellery

I first met Rosanna  - founder of Wyld Box Jewelry  - in Paris last September, during the Goldrush show. From the moment I saw her collection of gorgeous, vintage-inspired rings, I was completely smitten (and yes, I tried every single one on!). That was just on my first day there. A couple of days later, I stumbled upon a photo of Rosanna on Instagram with none other than Lenny Kravitz — yes, Lenny Kravitz! Of course, I had to ask: when? how? where? She told me she had met him at a restaurant in Paris, and in her words, she felt like she had died and gone to heaven — honestly, that’s pretty much how we both feel about Mr. Kravitz! Since then, we’ve stayed in touch, sharing not only her beautiful pieces (which I’ve been so happy to feature) but also many conversations — about jewelry, life, and the little twists and turns that come our way. Just recently, she gave me a sneak peek at her new collection, inspired by a 1960s Cartier clutch, which made its debut at Couture last week. Of course I shared it on my page since it’s absolutely stunning — and judging by your reactions, you all love it as much as I do! Life keeps moving, with its ups and downs, but there’s always space for beauty, sparkle, and connection. I’m so happy to be sharing a little piece of Rosanna’s story with you today. ROSANNA FIEDLER - WYLD BOX JEWELRY My first memory of jewelry takes me back to my 6th birthday. I chose seven delicate silver bangles that I absolutely adored. I can still see them—simple, beautiful, and filled with the kind of magic only childhood treasures possess. That was the beginning of my lifelong love affair with jewelry. As I grew older, that passion only deepened. My journey into fashion was fueled by a desire to stand out, to express myself, and to claim my independence. Along the way, I discovered the irresistible charm of vintage pieces—their history, their soul, their individuality. And I’ve always been drawn to statement jewelry—pieces that speak before you even say a word. After two decades of building brands and businesses for others, I knew it was time to create something of my own. Something personal. Something lasting. Wyld Box Jewelry was born from that moment—a brand where my experience in merchandising, my obsession with vintage, and my lifelong devotion to jewelry could finally come together. It’s more than a collection—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless beauty, reimagined for women who write their own stories. My philosophy of jewelry is rooted in individuality, heritage, and timelessness. I believe that jewelry is more than just an accessory; it is an expression of one’s unique identity and a way to connect with the past. The pieces I create and cherish reflect a love for bold, statement-making designs, often inspired by my Roman heritage and fascination with coins. To me, vintage jewelry is not just about craftsmanship but about preserving history and breathing new life into something that tells a story. Each piece is a personal connection, a reminder of pivotal moments, and an enduring bond with my roots. Jewelry should be more than beautiful—it should feel meaningful and empowering, resonating with the wearer for years to come. My passion for creating timeless, distinctive pieces is driven by a desire to celebrate independence, authenticity, and the joy of wearing something that came from the past and leave on into the future.  My inspiration begins the moment I encounter a piece that speaks to me—that instant connection, when something stirs and I just know. It’s as if the piece chooses me, not the other way around. In that moment, I can already see the story it will tell, and I feel the creative energy start to flow. From there, I build a collection that continues its legacy—giving new life to something timeless, while carrying my vision forward. rosanna fiedler @wyldboxjewelry

Clara and I first connected last July through Valery Demure ( Objet d’Emotion ), and I featured her gorgeous rings in a special "Rings on Hands" story I created. We finally met in person that September at Goldrush , where I not only had the chance to try on several of her beautiful pieces but also to enjoy a lovely conversation with her. We talked about jewelry, our shared love of rings, motherhood—she was pregnant at the time with baby Luca—the chaotic world we live in, and life in Beirut, among other things. It was such a delightful connection, and I’m so glad we’ve stayed in touch. Today, it’s a real joy to share her story, along with some of her stunning new rings, as well as a couple of my favorites! CLARA CHEHAB How I started As a young girl, I always dreamed of working with jewelry. This passion was fueled by childhood memories of visiting a series of goldsmiths with my paternal grandmother and us viewing their latest creations together. From her, I would always receive a ring or necklace for special occasions and birthdays.  She would sit down and discuss ideas with jewelers using it as part of a conversation to make something bespoke, special and unique to her. I remember, she had a Toi et Moi ring that was transformed into earrings, combining rose-cut diamonds with pink sapphires. I always thought of her whenever I wore those earrings. She lived a long life and died when she was 104. Compared to this older generation who preferred diamonds, my mother was edgy, creative and experimental with her love of pink tourmaline, peridot and amethyst.   It is these traditions that have helped develop a deep appreciation and love for aesthetic and beautiful pieces that evoke memories, reinforce familial bonds and deepen emotions.I returned to live in Beirut after leaving the corporate world of banking in London. For me, London, where I worked for a decade, was a very special place. It is international, a melting pot, unlike anywhere else in the UK. But Beirut offered the mountains, nature and a mild climate – you can go to the beach in late October and smell the jasmine in the winter. There’s also culture, such as the MIM Museum ( https://www.mim.museum ) a private collection of fine minerals in giant, rough prismatic shapes, which is well worth a visit. Anyway, arriving home in Beirut, I could no longer ignore my passion for jewelry and my desire to create, so I took the leap and followed my passion.   Motherhood and Family It was when I became a mother that I created my first collection Gaia, exploring the fruits of Mother Earth. I was inspired by what Mother Earth gives us and was driven to convey this without altering it. I now have three children—two boys with a girl sandwiched in between. I named my second collection after my daughter Sienna. My latest collection, Irene, coincided with the loss of my mother, someone who was always there for me, as well as the joyous moment of becoming pregnant with my third child. My jewelry has evolved as it reflects my life, loves and passions. Influenced by emotions, symbols, inspirations, connections and colors rise to the surface and resonate in my creations.   Favorite Gemstones I find asymmetrical and imperfect gemstones so beautiful to work with. It’s what helps to make each piece so unique. The whole identity of Clara Chehab Fine jewelry revolves around Mother Earth and I focus on this by keeping the stones as close as possible to their original form.     Inspiration I love travelling and Italy is a big inspiration for me. The country shares many similarities with Lebanon including dramatic landscapes. After all they both sit on the shores of the Mediterranean. I also love Iceland, a place I visited in 2010, because of its rough terrain. Art is important to me. I love the work of the Catalan artist Joan Miró and I’ve seen exhibitions of his work in Paris and London. I find the graphics and vibrant color appealing.  For me, creating is a way of expressing my feelings and being inspired by others also helps.      My Philosophy on life My pieces reflect the sentiment of living life and loving fully and capture the vivacity of my character when I feel inspired and alive. You will find a lot of color — shades of pink and green imperial topaz, blue sapphire and watermelon tourmaline -  in my work. Each piece of jewelry is a reflection of feelings and emotions. I consider it a journey of self-introspection.       What I would like to create: Pieces that combine rough aquamarine with garnet.  As a designer, I express my emotions through creating jewelry. My goal is for women to feel connected to the raw energy of the stones and be empowered every time they wear one of my pieces. As a brand, I like to create timeless pieces that will be handed down through the generations.     The fact that I use strong stones at their rough stage and combine them with soft design echoes the two contrasting elements of femininity.   I describe my jewelry as bold, sensual and feminine, strong yet subtle, and it’s by combining rough stones with cut stones and fine designs that I can achieve this.  @clarachehab