Small Talk

NICHOLAS LIEOU

The jeweller has created a capsule collection, inspired by yin and yang, for Sotheby’s Diamonds When were you first introduced to jewellery?

I was about six or seven years old and had strung together a bracelet made of plastic pearls and gold beads. I didn’t know what a clasp was, so tied it onto my mother’s wrist. She took it to the jewellers and had it replicated with small Akoya pearls and gold beads with a proper clasp.

Tell us about your new capsule collection.

Nature has always been a powerful source of inspiration for my jewellery. I’ve designed ten pieces that are set with stunning diamonds. Each gemstone is so precious, I decided to design unique settings for each piece to ensure I did the stones justice.

Do you have a favourite piece? It would have to be the rose-cut Cocoon ring, which features a 4.50-carat D-quality diamond.

What jewellery trends should we look out for?

Clients no longer want to save important diamonds for special occasions. They want more contemporary styles that can be worn during the day.