Designer appreciates the feminine and the timeless
Keltie Maguire of the Vancouver-based jewelry line Keltie Leanne Designs dishes on her inspiration, Aleesha Harris writes.
Q When and why did you start your jewelry collection?
A In late 2011. I was very inspired seeing the businesses that other creatives — and female creatives in particular — had started in Vancouver, and this was a big influence in exploring my own artistic and entrepreneurial inclinations. I’ve always had a love of art, fashion and design and within weeks of making my first pair of earrings for myself, I had decided to start my own collection. Watching the way women respond to my designs and the confidence, conversation and excitement they elicit is very rewarding.
Q Did you have a background in jewelry design?
A While I don’t have a formal education studying jewelry design, my first two jobs after university were selling jewelry in a retail environment. This definitely honed my appreciation for quality, independently designed jewelry and an understanding of what sets it apart from massproduced designs.
Q For those who aren’t familiar, how would you describe the esthetic of your pieces?
A Feminine, timeless and versatile. The designs incorporate colourful gemstones, delicate premium-quality chains and an ability to be layered, mixed and matched — or worn beautifully solo.
Q Your collection is all designed in your Vancouver studio. Where is it made?
A In addition to designing all of the pieces, I make the majority of the jewelry myself. When I was designing the new Geo Collection, I knew that the pieces were outside of my own skill-set as a maker and I wanted to ensure that the quality remained of the highest standard. This is why I chose to have the Geo Collection designs produced in Jaipur, India, which is renowned as one of the world’s top cities for gemstone cutting and handcrafted jewelry. The artisans I’m working with possess skills that have been shared across many generations, and it’s been exciting to broaden the types of pieces I can offer my customers. Q You use a unique blend of
stones including black diamonds and gemstones — but one of the most interesting elements of your latest collection, Geo, is the stones are conflict free. What can you share about that?
A The origin and ethics of gemstones and metals can be challenging to navigate for a multitude of reasons, but in particular, due to the many levels and layers within the mining and supply process. While it can be difficult — especially as an independent designer — to purchase directly from the source, I always try and work with suppliers that are as close to the material’s origins as possible, and with strong reputations within their industry. Diamonds that have been purchased by a source not involved in funding conflicts and that comply with UN resolutions are designated as conflict free.
Q Why was this important to you?
A It’s very important to me that I make responsible and ethical buying choices for the business.