Portugal is a country steeped in a history of textiles, exports and imports, as well as design. This Iberian peninsula’s rich heritage is not only celebrated in its medieval monuments and sun-kissed culture, but also in a long and established history of jewellery design.
Jewellery making is a well-seasoned craft in Portugal with a legacy that spans centuries. In a bid to put Portuguese jewellery on the global map, the Portuguese Jewellery and Watchmaking Association (AORP) have launched an international campaign, Shaped with Love, starring actress Milla Jovovich.
The campaign showcases Portuguese jewels, respective of the culture of the country’s tradition, created by a wave of young designers who are taking a traditional craft into the new age. Luísa Rosas comes from five generations of goldsmithery in northern Portugal. Her background in architecture naturally led her into the family trade, with her experimentalist attitude exploring the symbiosis of art and nature. Rosas’ signature collection, BE, is inspired by cellular structure with the repetition of golden ovals offering an innovative representation of creation.
Also sporting an architectural background is third generation jeweller, Diana Vieira Da Silva of Monseo, who takes a contemporary approach to fine jewellery design. Da Silva is fond of using classic jewels like ruby and emerald and takes inspiration from the Art Deco movement. Although modern in design, each Monseo piece is an ode to tradition using exquisite and rare gemstones like pink diamonds and opals.
Mimata offers another novel interpretation of Portuguese tradition by looking to the interstellar. Designer Joana Mieiro uniquely takes inspiration from stars and iconic places in Portuguese history. Geometry and a minimalist aesthetic give a fresh and contemporary perspective to time-honoured quality and technique.
It’s refreshing to see Portugal’s rooted design culture take a creative twist. There’s a know-how and elemental focus on artisanal craft, that would be hard to find anywhere else.
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Words / Shama Nasinde
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