It’s always a real privilege to work with clients to create their dream piece of jewellery. Working together to realise a vision for a piece of bespokje jewellery is a lot of fun and, for me, it’s a great opportunity to do a bit of problem solving as well as think about new designs and techniques.
Vintage jewellery design inspiration
For this commission, my client Suzie was inspired by a bracelet from the 1930s by Kay Bojosen, a Danish designer whose philosophy was “great design is something that everyone is entitled to” (see above pic).
This bold, but beautiful design was a great starting point and Suzie was after something quite chunky, but elegant which incorporated open triangles to complement a couple of pairs of my earrings that she already owned.
Having played around with some ideas, I suggested triangles with one slightly longer side which would be linked together with oval connectors. I felt that this worked better visually than using circles and gave a cleaner and more fluid line, more in keeping with the original inspiration.
We agreed on 2mm thick square section ecosilver wire would provide some weight to the piece without it being too heavy. We also discussed how the bracelet would fasten and agreed that, although a bolt clasp would probably be the most secure option, a hook fastening would still be durable whilst fitting better with the overal aesthetic.
The bespoke bracelet making process
Once I’d carefully cut and soldered the triangles, I laid them out to check how many I needed. Having consulted Suzie we both felt that having some smaller circular links at the end would give her more options for wearing the bracelet loose or more tightly around her wrist.
With the basic bracelet made, each component was joined together with the oval links and soldered then finished with files, sandpaper and abrasive mops before being put in the barrel polisher (my favourite bit of kit!) for it’s final polish to a soft sheen.
One final test on the wrist and a quick going over with a polishing cloth and it was finished! We're both really delighted with how it turned out…it has a pleasing weight without being overly chunky. And doesn't it look lovely on Suzie's wrist?
If you like the idea of having a bespoke piece of jewellery made then please do get in touch. I’m always very happy to discuss your ideas and there’s no obligation to proceed following an enquiry. It really is a lovely way of owning something that’s truly unique.
Elin Horgan designs and creates handmade jewellery in her Bristol studio. Elin’s beautifully simple handmade jewellery is carefully crafted and designed to be worn every day. You can read more about Elin’s work and the ethos behind her understated jewellery brand on her About Elin Horgan Jewellery page.
If you’d like to enquire about a specific product or discuss a custom piece of jewellery, please have a look at the Bespoke Handmade Jewellery page or email info@elinhorgan.com