Bespoke Jewellery for the Luxury Bride
Can you explain a little about the process of creating a bespoke piece of jewellery?
Creating a piece of bespoke jewellery is a very personal process that begins with inspiration that is translated into a concept. The desired outcome is discussed with our award winning designers then brought to life. The designer transforms a conversation into a personalised technical drawing for review by the client. Stones, precious metal and other materials are selected and then the final design for the bespoke piece of jewellery is interpreted by one of our artisanal jewellers. They will craft, polish and refine the piece of jewellery to perfection.
In you opinion, why is bespoke, custom-made jewellery becoming so sought after among luxury brides?
In an age of mass consumption and mass production there is passion for the unique. People desire something different. A creation of quality that harks back to bygone years, when things were made to last, not made for now. Unlike the bridal gown, bridal jewellery can be and is worn for years to come. It retains the sentiments of love and commitment, as well as representing a personal statement of style and individuality that cannot simply be copied by lesser imitations.
Right now, what’s the one thing you get asked for/about more than anything else?
Recently we have had a lot of requests for pear shaped engagement rings. More traditionally the preferred shape diamond was round, whereas now with customers wanting custom made rings with a point of difference the fancy shaped diamond rings such as Emerald cut, Pear Cut and Cushion cut are defiantly in the spotlight.
Can you please describe, in your own words, the difference between having a bespoke, personalised piece of jewellery made and purchasing a ready-made piece?
Bespoke jewellery is very personal and reflects individual style. It was considered and designed with a certain aesthetic or symbolism in mind which may not be available in the collection on hand. At Linneys there is no difference in quality or price between pieces of jewellery on display in the showroom and a piece made to order. It might just simply be that the exact design that the customer wants isn’t currently in the range on hand.
Why is bespoke jewellery a worthy investment for brides?
Jewellery tells stories, and none tells a more personal story than bespoke. The bride wears it on her wedding day, but the process begins long before, with an idea. The very process of its creation is an experience, as stones, metals and designs are chosen until she has an incredible jewel that is more than the sum of its parts. With her jewellery, she can tell the story of its creation, of the romance behind it, of her wedding day and the hundreds of special occasion that follow. Made with handcrafted quality, the jewellery and its stories can be passed on for generations.
What are your predictions for the direction that engagement rings, wedding bands and bridal jewellery will take over the next 12 months?
Pearl jewellery will be perhaps the strongest trend amongst bridal jewels, often as a complement to pearl detail decorating gowns, shoes and hair pieces. Fancy cut stones in solitaire engagement rings will emerge in rebellion against the more conventional round brilliant cut, and some brides will return to the traditions of an undecorated gold or platinum wedding band.
In your opinion, why is it important for brides to have jewellery that is unique?
Precious jewellery has the unique ability to transform and empower. Every time she wears her jewellery, she will be reminded not only of the special occasion that it was commissioned for, but feel the emotions of the day and relive that wonderful moment in time.
Are there any particular jewellery trends, materials, stones or design elements that you’d love to see more (or less) of in the coming year?
Heavily embellished items are likely to give way to more timeless minimalism, with large stones of all colours taking centre stage. Earrings may adopt new and unique forms, ornate in concept but simple in design. Rose gold should continue to hold its momentum and platinum will become a viable option for considerations against 18ct white gold as the price between the two precious metals becomes closer.
What’s your advice for brides who are trying to choose timeless wedding day jewellery?
Choose for a lifetime, not for a day. It may be tempting to match your piece precisely to your wedding dress, but will you wear it after the day? I love seeing Linneys brides in the showroom years after the wedding wearing and enjoying their wedding day pearl earrings.
What are the most important things for brides to consider when choosing their jewellery?
Does the jewellery truly reflect your personal style? It can be very easy to get swept away in the wedding concept and momentary trends. But if the jewellery is out of touch with you and the rest of your wardrobe, it will be relegated to the jewellery box.
If you were designing your own engagement and wedding rings right now, what would they look like?
Classical styles with a modern twist always remain timeless. Choose solitaire settings with untraditional diamond cuts and mixed metals. Diamond set wedding bands offer brilliance and sparkle to simpler engagement rings, but a stone of significant size may need no extra adornment.
Is there anything that I haven’t asked that I should have asked? Or anything you’d like to add?
My advice is – don’t leave the wedding rings until last when planning the wedding. The rings are the one thing that you carry with you every single day after the wedding. You don’t want to spend the wedding budget on flowers and table settings then find you can’t get the wedding ring you really want.