Jewellery has the power to transform an outfit. A plain white t-shirt is instantly dressed up with a chunky necklace, while the right pair of earrings adds personality to your favourite LBD. More so than any other accessory, jewellery can spark emotions and memories in us – we all have a special piece that makes us smile and lifts our mood with a sparkle and a shimmer.
Thanks to the growing industry of independent British designers, there has never been more choice when it comes to beautiful (and affordable) jewellery. Whether your style is classic and feminine, quirky and cool, or bold and unique, prepare to meet your next favourite brand among these six contemporary British jewellery designers we love...
1. Tatty Devine
Known for its cheeky logo jewellery and quirky acrylic pendants, Tatty Devine has been a hipster staple since its flagship store opened on Brick Lane in the mid-00s. The brand began in 1999 when Harriet Vine and Rosie Wolfenden met at art school and discovered a shared passion for fun jewellery which has something to say. Go big with a statement necklace in the shape of a dinosaur, or keep it (relatively) simple with a lightening-bolt pendant or a chain of acrylic bunting.
2. Monica Vinader
London-based Monica Vinader has only been in business since 2002, but she is already considered a design legend. She single-handedly brought back the cocktail ring with her iconic collection of Siren rings. Using thin bands of gold and semi-precious gem stones such as rose quartz and green onyx, she is able to create show-stopping pieces that are surprisingly affordable.
3. Dominique Lucas
Intricately carved animals, rare gem stones and dramatic claw settings characterise Dominique Lucas’ work. Feted for her delicate engravings and original designs, the London-based designer has a completely unique style which has won her a cult following among savvy fashionistas. Her signature gold owl rings are sure to become a collector’s piece.
4. Daniella Draper
Specialising in silver, Daniella Draper’s designs are loved by the likes of Kate Moss and Cressida Bonas who stack her bangles, layer her pendants and invest in her bespoke aquamarine and diamond rings. She trained at the prestigious Central St Martin’s school in London, before moving back to her native Lincolnshire where she still hand-makes every piece herself.
5. Dominic Jones
Dominic Jones creates jewellery with an edge – sometimes literally! He burst onto the scene in 2009 with his instantly-successful range of shark-tooth necklaces and claw rings, and his recent collections have featured spiky half-hoop earrings and ferocious knuckle dusters with heavy golden talons. His creations are often spotted on the likes of Cara Delavigne and Agyness Deyn.
6. Lola Rose
Inspired by her grandmother’s style, Nicola Gewirtz made a single tumble-stone bracelet for herself. This ended up becoming the first piece in her inaugural Lola Rose collection, and fifteen years later the brand has gone international, making millions of pounds for Gewirtz and even snagging her an MBE. Lola Rose jewellery is known for its smooth, pebble-like gemstones, pastel-coloured beads and semiprecious cocktail rings which are unique and timeless.
