ERICA REYES
Unique, vintage jewellery finds its niche at Riqueza Jewellery. Helmed by Erica Reyes, the brand has two jewellery lines: one that caters to unique, antique vintage pieces, while another that focuses on custom design.
Reyes, who has spent time under the tutelage of the esteemed Ramon Villegas, has admitted to her own passion for one-of-kind jewellery: “Just like my clients and the ladies that I design for, [I] have uncommon taste.” As no doubt many of her clientele believe, Reyes views jewellery as not just an art but something that involves an emotional quotient. “A jewellery piece must make the wearer feel happy and beautiful, and enrich life,” she says. She’s also not one to dwell too much on trends, creating instead timeless pieces with meticulous detail that will outlast any fad.
Due to Reyes’ love for vintage finds, many of Riqueza’s pieces have an inspired history. Her designs usually take on the romanticism of years gone by, and Reyes herself admits to looking back on the glamorous Manila social scene of the Sixties and the Seventies. The designer, however, doesn’t limit herself to only a certain era, as her creations also embody the many influences of colonial jewellery tradition. “[Colonial jewellery tradition is] very rich and sophisticated, combining Indo-Malay elements, Chinese influences, European Baroque and Rococo styles. There are so many inspiring aspects to it. Philippine architecture and even tropical plants and flowers [also] provide so much inspiration for my jewellery,” she explains.