Treasure

Gina Melosi

"//broken PROMISES// is Gina's second instalment, already set to be a maximalist fashionista hit with its chunky recycled Bronze neckwear, armbands, and unisex rings. Stemming from the same theme as the first collection //SHATTERED fragments//, but utilising curved shapes, rougher textures, a darker colour palette, and unusual stones such as lava rock, the overall ethos really is 'Bigger is better.' Drawing inspiration from the shattered remnants left over in the streets after a night out, where promises are made and broken, Gina turns ready-made found objects of aggression into beautiful ornamentation for the body."

Describe your jewellery design in three words. Conceptual, Directional, Sharp

How long does each design take from inception to finished piece?

I see each design as a constant work-in-progress. Some of the pieces are a two-stage process in terms of mould-making. The first two collections are cast directly from broken glass, and then other elements are added at various stages to achieve the final result. Once cast, all of the pieces are hand-finished, generally taking an hour to several hours each.

Describe the space where you design.

I rent a bench in a shared workshop with the talented William Cheshire. Our workshop is based within the jewellery quarter of Hatton Garden in London.

Where does your inspiration come from? Describe the process?

My designs are borne out of my fine art and music background. I'm inspired by the beauty which arises out of destruction, loss, and decay. I also like playing with contrasts; contrasts add depth. The inspiration for the first two collections //SHATTERED fragments// and //broken PROMISES// specifically came from broken glass shards. The glass is alchemised into metal, yet leaving the rough edges and textures inherent in the original fragments. There are physical and theoretical references to the shattered, broken parts of our being. But there is beauty in trying to become whole again.

Who would be your dream person to design for?

Anyone who loves and supports what I do as a designer is a dream person for me to design for!

Favourite book and what are you reading right now?

My favourite books are generally artists' books. But I'm currently reading A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini.

How do you want the wearer to feel when wearing your jewellery?

Special, strong, and sexy.

What advice would you give to other people who are keen to start up their own business?

Expect a lot of hard work and dedication, but the payoff for doing your own thing is much rewarded in spiritual wellbeing.

If you look back in ten years time, what do you hope to have achieved?

Hopefully a name for myself within the international jewellery world and a successful business model.

Who, so far, has been the best client to design for?

I created a Platinum pendant for Robyn, and she was absolutely lovely.

What are your most popular pieces in your collection?

The //SHATTERED fragments// Inbetween Ring has been very popular in the press since its launch.

What do you consider to be the ongoing trend in jewellery design for 2012?

Alternative types of jewellery such as mid-finger rings, ear cuffs, and collar tips.

How do you promote your brand?

I use social networking platforms to promote my brand online. This year will see a new and updated website developed for the Gina Melosi brand, with an e-commerce component.

How do you plan to expand your business?

Aside from the website development, I have expanded into exhibiting internationally, with my first show of the year at Paris Fashion Week. The brand will continue to exhibit at key events, and will also be involved in more Press Days, including taking on some help with PR and consultancy for in-house brand growth. I plan to gain more editorial exposure and expand upon the range of products and collections available, as well as adding new key stockists both in the UK and abroad.

What materials are you designing with?

I currently use recycled Sterling Silver and recycled Bronze. I use different plated finishes and lacquers. I like to add in other materials such as lava rock, silk, and fair-trade gemstones, depending on what the design and concept dictate.

Contact Details...

Find out more

Find out more about exhibiting at Treasure.

For general enquiries, please call 020 8510 9069 or visit our contact page for more details.