When one wins a coveted insight into the working world of jewellery powerhouse Swarovski, one leaves with a finely tuned knowledge of the industry. Combine this with an innate eye for sublimely stylish design, and the result is a fine jeweller set to land firmly on our sartorial radar.
Ralph Masri may have been but a first-year St Martins student when he won the Swarovski Award, but his nascent years in the industry do not reflect in his exquisitely crafted pieces. Blending the delicate perfection of fine jewellery with the bold spirit of costume jewellery, Masri’s pieces are fantastically desirable, with an appeal which transcends the fickle seasons of fashion.
His latest collection, Arabesque Deco, explores the classic beauty of diamond and ruby, with gemstones encased in yellow gold architectural structures. Inspired by geometric Arabesque patterns, the collection blends obvious Middle Eastern influences with a touch of the Art Deco, creating pieces which are world-relevant and widely appealing.
The Masri woman is a creature of strength, of fearless individuality. And so his pieces are bought by women, for women – not as a traditionally romantic gesture from a love interest. The Masri woman waits for no man to acquire her jewels – and with pieces this covetable, neither would we.
Discover the collection at Wolf & Badger, Notting Hill, London W11 2AB
by Roberta Lister