Selma Stagg Porcelain designs incorporate semi-precious beads and sterling silver. The porcelain stones are individually hand-shaped and burnished, and then fired, glazed (again five layers) and fired again. Each piece is unique as they are all hand-made. Selma Stagg will be exhibiting her exquisite range of handmade Jewellery at the A La Mode International Show during London Fashion Week in February 2010. We caught up with the designer herself to find out more about her range and inspirations!
You initially studied Civil Engineering. How did your interest in designing jewellery come about?
I've always enjoyed design - both as a user and a professional engineer. Shortly after I came to England, I studied Art, Design and Ceramics and focussed on making decorative pots. As I was doing this, I thought that porcelain would lend itself to the type of shape that works well in jewellery and started experimenting with it. I soon realised that I could make some really interesting shapes and textures and use ceramic glazes to develop colour schemes that were very unusual.
Where does the inspiration for your designs come from?
A number of places. The jewellery styles that I find stimulating are from Northern Africa (Berber in particular). But I also use my mathematical training to apply geometric principles to the designs.
What makes your pieces unique?
Its the combination of porcelain and glaze that I developed. What is unique about my work is that the glazing covers the whole porcelain "stone" - this is technically very difficult to achieve, but adds depth to the finished article.
How would you describe the person who buys your pieces?
People who buy my work have an eye for unusual shapes and colours that are produced in a classic style - but they want something different.
What are you most looking forward to about the 'A La Mode' show, and how are you preparing for the big night?
I want to meet people from the world of fashion who appreciate good design using interesting materials. I'm bringing a selection of my work that I hope will stimulate them.
If you could choose any celebrity in the world to wear your Jewellery who would you select and why?
Whenever I finish a piece of jewellery, I often visualise Kate Winslett wearing it.
In five years time where do you hope to be, what would you hoped to have achieved and developed through designing?
I have invested a huge amount of time and energy in designing and making my jewellery. I would like my brand to be recognised and appreciated in the fashion industry.
Where can we purchase your gorgeous pieces of Jewellery?
I want to meet people from the world of fashion who appreciate good design using interesting materials. I'm bringing a selection of my work that I hope will stimulate them.
When you're not designing jewellery you're:
I spend pretty much all my time researching new designs and making new products.
Website: www.selmastagg.co.uk
