Yesterday evening I had the pleasure of attending “An Evening with Alex Monroe” at the beautiful Astley Clarke’s showroom in central London, where they were celebrating his exquisite work. Alex Monroe is a very charming British jewellery designer, whose playful originality and very charming designs are admired and worn worldwide. His classic bumblebee necklace in a deep 22ct yellow gold vermeil is, perhaps his trademark piece and a must have for even the most casual of jewellery collectors:
Bumblebee Necklace 22ct yellow gold vermeil bumblebee necklace by Alex Monroe
I love the bumblebee earrings too!
Bumblebee Earrings 22ct yellow gold vermeil bumblebee earrings by Alex Monroe, Astley Clarke
Nature is the inspiration behind most of the designer’s work and he has designed two exclusive collections for Astley Clarke, the Forget-Me-Not collection and the Vine collection. They pieces are so delicate and perfect for summer!
From the Forget-Me-Not Collection:
Forget-me-not Frond Ring Sterling silver and diamond flower ring by Alex Monroe, Astley Clarke
From the Vine Collection:
Vine Drop Earrings 22ct yellow gold vermeil vine earrings by Alex Monroe, Astley Clarke
Silver Vine Ring by Alex Monroe, Astley Clarke
Apart from these collections, Astley Clarke also stock some of Alex Monroe’s classics such as the Feather Necklace (perfect for festivals!):
Feather Necklace 22ct yellow gold vermeil feather necklace by Alex Monroe, Astley Clarke
And the Lucky Bracelet:
Lucky Bracelet 22ct yellow gold vermeil motif bracelet by Alex Monroe, Astley Clarke
Alex Monroe, the designer himself and Emma, his delightful assistant
It really was a lovely evening. Everything sparkled from the diamonds to the champagne flutes and it was not only so special to meet Alec Monroe but also to step into the world of Astley Clarke and see the jewellery collections in the real. For anyone who has ever hesitated about buying jewellery online, I can assure you that the sparkling delights which are photographed so beautifully for the Astley Clarke website are even more delectable beyond the lens. And for anyone who doesn’t believe in love at first sight, just visit the Astley Clarke showroom and you will be converted!
Astley Clarke have recently launched the Biography Collection, which comprises of pieces with symbolic charms and gorgeous gemstones. Two of my favourites:
18 carat yellow gold vermeil diamond Evil Eye Ring, Astley Clarke
Hamsa Friendship Bracelet, 18ct yellow gold vermeil chain wrapped bracelet with faceted red agate and hamsa diamond microwave charm, Astley Clarke
As for the charm collection, there is a choice to die for and you can build your own bracelet and add to it over time… Founded in 2006 by Bec Astley Clarke, who wanted to provide an online space selling imaginatively designed fine jewellery, it is no surprise that the boutique hosts a range of wonderful contemporary designers. These are some of the modern treasures that I found…
Inspired by the 1960’s style icon, Talitha Getty, Dinny Hall’s fluid and sensual Talitha collection features recurring motifs of Moroccan and Persian inspired quatrefoils. Perfect for that holiday in Morocco!
Talitha Necklace, 18 carat yellow gold vermeil necklace, by Dinny Hall, Astley Clarke
Talitha Bracelet, 18 carat yellow gold vermeil bracelet, by Dinny Hall, Astley Clarke
Shaun Leane is the go-to designer for nautical seafaring pieces with a rock n roll edge:
Ivory enamel Tusk ring in 9ct yellow gold vermeil by Shaun Leane, Astley Clarke
Golden Gypsy Moth Bracelet in 9ct yellow gold vermeil by Shaun Leane, Astley Clarke
Zara Simon has been one to watch since she launched her label after training in Central Saint Matin’s a few years ago. Her designs are so unique and seem to strike a balance between modern architecture and antiquarian talismans.
Shard Gem Ring 18 carat yellow gold vermeil green amethyst ring by Zara Stone, Astley Clarke
Psychedelic Cuff (18 carat yellow gold vermeil & rose quartz), by Zara Simon, Astley Clarke
Hillier is a quirky modern British label whose magic lies in its simple pieces. I think the tiny diamond ring is so cute! And love the paper clip inspired pendants!
Pretty Ring, 18ct yellow gold with diamond, by Hillier, Astley Clarke
Tortoise Pendant Sterling Silver Tortoise pendant by Hillier, Astley Clarke
New to Astley Clarke, Lebanese designer Nayla Arida’s fusion of colours in her very precious pieces are a delight!
Angel Fish Bracelet 18 carat yellow gold pink sapphire bracelet by Nayla Arida, Astley Clarkeayla
Thank you for a great evening to all at Astley Clarke! Will come back soon! : )
Contemporary, Designer and Fine Jewellery Collections at AstleyClarke.com
