Thinking of investing in a special piece of jewellery? Before hitting the high street it’s worth considering a British based designer for a handmade creation says independent Essex goldsmith, Marisa Arna.
Whether it’s a delicately crafted pair of earrings or timeless diamond ring, a piece of jewellery is a personal style statement that speaks volumes about its owner and will be worn for many years to come.
For that reason, it’s important to go to someone who will create a piece that will stand the test of time says goldsmith and jewellery designer, Marisa Arna.
“Jewellery with long lasting craftsmanship and an interesting design is what you’ll receive from an independent designer goldsmith like me”, says Marisa, who has been creating jewellery in her Thorpe-Le-Soken studio, near Frinton on Sea, since 2007.
With Marisa’s jewellery studio and gallery showcasing her own designs and a selection of work by other small British based jewellery designer-makers, we look at why investing in handmade jewellery is the way to go.
1. Create jewellery to suit you
“A bespoke piece will be made to suit the person’s lifestyle and taste. It will be created with particu-lar consideration to the person it is being made for and will fit perfectly,” says Marisa.
“The designs can be minimal or elaborate and vary according to the customer. Some go for my geometrical pieces others for the floral ones. The surface can be highly polished or textured. The idea is that the customer will enjoy wearing their bespoke piece of jewellery every day,” she adds.
2. Choose your materials
Have you got your heart set on a particular stone? Or perhaps gold is your metal of choice? When it comes to bespoke handmade jewellery, you can choose the material and finish.
“I work with gold and silver and I can source particular stones, including diamonds, for customers,” Marisa says. “Husbands and partners often visit the gallery to buy handmade items off the shelf too, if they’re buying a surprise gift.”
3. Remodel a piece of jewellery
If a precious piece of jewellery has been in the family for years and needs a new lease of life, an independent designer-goldsmith can shape it into something new, to suit your own taste.
“It can be a grandmother’s engagement ring, or any broken piece of gold jewellery. I can melt, roll and shape the gold into something new using traditional goldsmithing techniques including stone-setting, combined with modern technology,” Marisa explains. “Following trends in recycling in all fields, people like the idea of having jewellery remodelled. Inspired by my designs, their new pieces will have a more unique, timeless look.”
4. Meet your designer
Whether you’re shopping for a beautiful pendant, engagement ring or wedding rings, what could be better than meeting the designer who would create your jewellery?
“My customers make an appointment, come to the gallery and we discuss designs over a cup of coffee,” Marisa continues. “I stick to the brief and begin sketching. I use real stones and blue tac to give customers an impression of what the piece will look like, for them to make a final decision so that I can work out a price.”
5. Support a local artist
Supporting someone who aims for unique designs, believes in expert craftsmanship and adores their job is one of the greatest benefits of buying jewellery from a local goldsmith. And this goes hand in hand with excellent customer service.
“I love to create very personal things and enjoy meeting new people,” says Marisa. “Jewellery af-tercare is a vital part of my service to my customers, which gives them peace of mind.”
Visit the Marisa Arna Gallery and Studio on the High Street, Thorpe-le-Soken, Essex, CO16 0EA, or call 01255 862355 to book an appointment.
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Visit the Marisa Arna website here.
