About Natalie Vernazza
From my studio in Oxfordshire, UK, I create handmade jewellery with the aim of instilling a sense of subtle confidence, contemporary elegance and soft refinement within the wearer.
With simple designs inspired by clean lines and voluptuous symmetry, there is a lean towards tonal contrast with mixed finishes in my work. And of course, beautiful, slightly alternative gemstones.
Alongside a core collection of every day wearable items, I create truly individual pieces, where unique gemstones take centre stage and fulfil the role they were always destined to.
Meticulous in my approach to traditional craftsmanship, these pieces can be treasured for generations to come.
Underlying Inspiration
It's taken me quite a lot of reflection to even begin to understand the connections between what I'm drawn to in life, what I enjoy creating as a metalsmith and what I'm hoping to achieve on this journey. Definitely not something I can articulate in just a couple of paragraphs! My mother is from Hong Kong and is father from Italy, so as a person of mixed heritage, I've always been exposed to mixed cultures and styles, and this no doubt influences my designs today.
I love the subtle interplay of mixed metals and mixed textures. Whether it's mixing high-shine with satin finishes, gold with silver, or mixing the bright facets of a rose-cut stone with the smooth curves of a bezel setting.
My collections are based on timeless designs elevated by contemporary touches, with items that can be worn alone or layered with complementary pieces. I always wear jewellery, and know first hand how emotive buying jewellery is. I create jewellery that I hope will become part of your being, like a second skin.
Ethos in Making
If I could think of several words to capture the ethos of jewellery made here, it would be Sustainability, Quality and Craftsmanship.
Sustainable - recycled precious metals, careful sourcing of ethical gemstones and eco-friendly packaging to present my jewellery.
Quality - solid precious metals (no plating or vermeil), high-quality gemstones from a small number of reputable suppliers, creating jewellery that is made to last.
This sentiment also drives my increasing use of Argentium Silver, which is superior to 925 sterling. It is tarnish resistant, harder and hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for those that react to silver.
Craftsmanship - I design and create using traditional methods...pencil and paper, flame and metal, saw and hammer. No computer aided design or pre-made settings.
I treat every stage of this craft with the patience and perseverance that each piece of jewellery deserves, and take pride in creating jewellery that will last generations. The sense of achievement that comes from beholding a finished piece that looks stunning is unbeatable, and this is what continually motivates me in every piece that I create.
Favourite Gemstones?
I'm unable to resist one-of-a-kind gemstones that have a story of their own to tell - such as the arboreal forms of dendritic agates or the endless array of Australian opals that make you dream of the ocean and skies. I select gems that I connect with, and study them for some time before designing the perfect setting for them.
Equally drawn to some of the lesser known gemstones which offer huge variations in colour - from cool-toned Spinel and vibrantly rich Garnet, to the very underrated natural Zircon...there is a perfect gem for everyone.
I honestly couldn't be happier than when I'm searching for gemstones, so if there's something in particular you're looking for, please get in touch.
Be in the know
If you'd like to be the first to know about email exclusive offers, new collections, delicious gemstones and more, join our email list. You'll also receive a £25 discount from your first purchase with us.