- First Celestial Collection Show: Monday 6th December at 8pm
- Second Celestial Collection Show: Thursday 9th December at 8pm
Gemstone jewellery inspired by the stars and the heavens has existed for hundreds of years and is enjoying a considerable resurgence in popularity. The trend has been partially fuelled by the pandemic and its effect on the fundamental human need to understand our place in this vast universe. Space has also been in the news a lot in the last few years, particularly as NASA and several other space-venturing companies turn their focus back towards once again vising the Moon and even venturing onwards to Mars and other parts of our solar system. The cosmic themes captured within celestially-inspired designs are, literally and figuratively, universal. A piece of jewellery created in this style truly captures the wonder, mystery and beauty of the beyond. We’re delighted to be launching our very own Celestial Collection ourselves across two shows, Monday 6th December at 8pm and Thursday 9th December at 8pm. We spoke to the creator of these gorgeous new pieces, Rebecca Jarratt, to find out the genesis of these galaxial pieces.
Hiya Rebecca, how are you? For those who haven’t met you before, how long have you been at Gemporia, and what do you do?
Hey! I have been at Gemporia for nearly nine years now. I am Head of Merchandising, so I get to help create our amazing events for TV and oversee all our incredible new pieces as they arrive. I have also joined the buying team for the past year, and it has been so much fun.
What inspired you to start creating jewellery collections?
I always have ideas for different themes or jewellery pieces that I wish I could own but can’t find anywhere. Now I have the opportunity to create them and see them get made. When they arrive in the building, they’re amazing to see in person.
Can you tell us a little about how this collection came about? What made you go with a Celestial theme?
I have always loved all things space, and I am fascinated by what is above and beyond and how it connects us all. From a geeky perspective, I love time and space and even had a celestial-themed wedding cake with a Doctor Who TARDIS flying through the middle!
What are the key visual motifs you wanted to include in the collection?
I wanted to make sure I incorporated as many iconic associations with space as possible, so you will see stars, moons, planets and solar systems.
How many pieces are in the collection, and do you have any favourites?
There are only 14 pieces in this collection. It is tough to pick a favourite, but my husband made a sneaky early purchase of the Labradorite necklace as a surprise, and I can’t stop wearing it.
Which gemstones have you picked for these designs and why?
I wanted to use gemstones that complemented the designs and gave the planets the most authentic look and feel. So you will see Lapis Lazuli, Chalcedony, Jasper and of course Moonstone (plus a few more surprises)!
When will the Celestial Collection be debuting on-air?
It will be launching in two parts, Monday 6th December at 8pm with the amazing Adina Stubbs and Thursday 9th December at 8pm with the lovely Lynn Jinks.
Where do you start when creating a new collection?
I began with creating a mood board of ideas and inspiration, looking at what jewellery was available already and researching what gemstones would best suit the designs/theme.
What is your favourite part of the process in creating your jewellery?
I love receiving the first proposal where the team have turned my ideas into pieces of jewellery. It’s great opening that document and seeing it all there, ready to go. I really appreciate that someone else has seen my vision and helped me create a unique piece of jewellery.
Do you have a style icon?
I don’t really follow any style icons; I think it’s important to enjoy what you like and go with something that grabs your attention and makes you feel great when you wear it.
Why do you think jewellery is such a special thing to own and give as a gift?
Jewellery is one of those things that you always have. It lasts forever, and you can always look back and remember why it’s in your collection to begin with. That makes it even more special.
Which piece in your own jewellery collection means the most to you?
My Amber ring is the first thing I bought myself when I started at Gemporia. I had no idea what it was before I joined, and it absolutely fascinated me. My most special piece is the Morganite ring that I had made for my wedding. I bought the loose stone from Gem Collector and had it set in a rose gold mount. It was my ‘something new’ present to myself!
After the launch shows, will you be bringing any more Celestial Collection pieces to Gemporia?
I had so many ideas for this first collection, and I already have more ready to go. Hopefully, everyone will love them as much as I do, and we can look at doing part two next year.
Are you working on any other collections at the moment?
I am working on the spring/summer collection of Capelli hair jewellery which was my first collection for Gemporia. I am also working on a new brand of watches, some beautiful brooches and a men’s jewellery collection. There are a lot of exciting projects in the works; it’s going to be a very exciting 2022.
Thanks so much for talking with us Rebecca, all the best for the launch. We look forward to seeing more of your designs and collections in the future.
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