Laura Strand
Allura
Description of design
Laura has designed a pair of asymmetric earrings in platinum complimented with diamonds, spessartite garnets and a yellow sapphire. The abstracted design features a number of Indian-inspired elements including a starburst of exotic flowers, insects and a coiling snake. A detachable chain adorned with diamonds leads to a winged insect, which can be clipped either to the middle or top of the ear. The piece also owes much to Laura’s experimentation with different textures and finishes, made possible by the diversity inherent in platinum as a medium. The focal point of the piece is a coiling snake, textured with a snakeskin pattern. Other interesting visual and tactile elements include the delicate pattern of the insect wings, achieved through the juxtaposition of both matt and polished finishes, and the layers of exotic flowers which contrast polished platinum petals with pave set diamond flowers.
Laura complimented the platinum with white diamonds to create a harmonious contrast of textures. She has also used a yellow marquise sapphire and two orange marquise spessartite garnets to represent the danger of the stinging insects that form such an important component of the piece.
Inspirations behind the piece
Perfect for a red carpet occasion from Hollywood to Bollywood, the piece is inspired by India and the glamorous Maharanis of the 1920s and 1930’s, adopting many stylistic cues from the era and giving them an exotic and contemporary twist. The piece also reflects the many facets of India, from the secluded and sheltered Grand Palaces to the danger and mystique of the jungle. There is a bittersweet element to this piece too, as its glittering lure comes complete with a venomous sting in the tail.
About the designer
After graduating from Central St Martins in 2008 with a BA Honours in Jewellery Design, Laura started up her own business as a Designer-Maker and Freelance Jewellery Designer, creating her own collections and designing for a diverse range of brands. Through her freelance work she developed an empathy for fine jewellery and is now Head Designer for PureJewels, designing their fine jewellery collections and managing their creative department.
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