In search of my own style
When people see my jewelry, two things often stand out: the color of the gemstones and the small balls – granules – that recur repeatedly in my work. They have since become my signature, but that was not true from the beginning.
In the first years of my career, I was in full search of my own style. What makes a piece of jewelry truly mine? What shapes and details fit who I am? That went with a lot of trying, failing and starting over. Slowly I found the elements that suit me: a solid, often classic base ring with a tactile texture. And on it – or in it – the granules: little balls that I apply by hand, piece by piece. Always in combination with color. Not a standard white diamond, but tourmaline, sapphire or spinel. Gemstones that surprise. Who speak.
That search took time, but it was necessary to develop my own writing.
In my work is who I am
My work is often described as “classic with a twist. And yes, that’s right. I like solid forms, jewellery that will last for generations, but with my own twist: color, texture and composition.
Diamond? Of course, it can be beautiful. But my heart beats faster with a pink diamond, a forest green variety or a tourmaline with an unexpected inclusion. Gemstones with character.
Just as my jewellery exudes a certain calmness, so does my appearance. I am not an outspoken fashion person. Jeans, sweater, sneakers (preferably Nike), hair in a bun – and I’m ready. But underneath that calm exterior is a head that is always “on. I talk fast, think ahead, see things happening even before they are there. And yes, sometimes I have just a little too much hair on my teeth.
Perhaps that is exactly why I am so attracted to the over-the-top creations of fashion house Schiaparelli or the insane creations of Dutch designer Iris van Herpen. Those distinct forms, that drama, that guts – it speaks to something in me. Not because I want to make it myself, but because it challenges me. It stimulates me to look at my own work with fresh eyes: what could be more pure, more exciting, more rich?
Collections with character
Over the years, several collections have emerged, each with its own face. And yet they are all recognizable as “my work.
The Elevance collection was created from my love of color combinations. I used to make many rings with three gemstones or pearls together in one design. I translated that into a collection where that combination is still possible, but where you can also wear one ring solo. Mix & match, but refined.
The Sirius collection is my classic line. Wide, solid rings with a timeless look – but with my handwriting: textures, granules and color. Rings that will easily last a lifetime, and even a generation after that.
And then there’s the M.I.N.D collection my creative canvas. In it, I try new things. Sometimes with granules, sometimes without. It is a space where I am allowed to explore and experiment, without sticking to my granules or other recognizable elements.
My handwriting
Granules, color, solid shapes and attention to detail – that is my signature. It is the result of searching, trial and error, and constantly choosing what really suits me. Every piece of jewelry I make carries that handwriting.
And perhaps that’s the best part: that my jewellery not only shows something of me, but ultimately tells something of the wearer.
Love,
Sarah