Happy New Year, everyone! I wanted to start this year with a post about one of my favorites. Those of you that follow this blog know that I am a big Hattie Rickards fan. You can check my previous posts on the talented jewelry designer here and here. I love Hattie’s work not only because her incredible talent translates into the most beautiful jewelry but I also appreciate the thought she puts behind all of her pieces. Hattie doesn’t just create great jewelry, but she cares deeply about the sources used and the impact of her work. No blood diamonds here, folks! That’s why her most recent collaboration with Turquoise Mountain seems more like a natural
progression than something unusual for the designer. Hattie Rickards and Alexandra Llewellyn (you can check out her amazing backgammon boards here) were invited by Turquoise Mountain to work in Kabul alongside talented local artisans. The idea behind Turquoise Mountain is a great one – “it’s an educational institute who’s mission is to regenerate Afghanistan’s traditional crafts and historic areas, and in doing so to create jobs, skills and a renewed sense of national identity”. How cool is that?!? The photographs below show the wonderful combination between Hattie’s design talent and the hard work of the local Afghani artisans. The collection is called “Looking through the Oculus” and is inspired by the intricate geometric patterns thrown by light as it shines through the Jali screens used to provide privacy for local women. The 20 piece collection is made of 18ct gold plated brass and locally sourced lapis lazuli, agate and kunzite. You can purchase the pieces at www.TurquoiseMountainArts.org. The prices range from $100-400 and all profits go to Turquoise Mountain! Hope you love the collection as much as I do!
