María
A trained jeweller, designer, gemologist and appraiser, María is a scion of a Spanish family deeply involved in the arts, with creativity surging through her veins.
But María wasn’t finished honing her skills there. She went on to complete studies at the Spanish Association of Jewellery Appraisers in Madrid to become a Jewellery Appraiser, completing an HRD (Diamonds High Council in Antwerp) course to become a diamond grader. María’s extensive jewellery education along with her emotive style allows her to create interesting, structurally inspiring bespoke engagement rings.
In 2019, Maria was selected as a “Rising Star” by Professional Jeweller, as a part of the POWER LIST 2019: Rising Stars, in which the magazine recognises talented employees and designers who push the industry forward. Maria’s innate creativity and specialism in designing complex pieces won her this recognition amongst industry professionals.
Quickfire Q&A
What is your favourite gemstone?
Sapphires.
What is your favourite stone shape?
Pear shape. It has edge, and yet still retains a softness.
What is your favourite metal?
18k yellow gold.
How would you describe your style in three words?
Geometric, organic, expressive.
Sources of Inspiration
María creates work inspired by emotions–what she feels and what others feel. When she receives a commission, she draws on the subject’s experiences to capture the essence of the piece. Her favourite part of creating engagement rings is the process of helping people connect with themselves and reflect on their experiences.
“I enjoy getting to meet and speak with customers in consultations. I get to ask them about their partners and what they do. For example, what do they like? What do they wear? What is their style? Are they a little more adventurous? I love to engage my customers and help them design the perfect ring for their partner!”- María
Art Nouveau
An integral part of the design process is taking references from iconic periods of jewellery design. María’s background in art history gives her a unique perspective on ring references and she’s particularly inspired by Art Nouveau, an international style of decorative arts.
Art Nouveau flourished between 1890 and 1910, as a direct reaction against the historicism of 19th century architecture and design. Inspired by natural forms, Art Nouveau incorporated the curves and flow of plants and flowers, to create a sense of organic dynamism and movement. The evolution’s style is also characterised by the use of innovative materials for the time, such as iron, glass, ceramic and concrete in objects.
“I absolutely love Art Nouveau. I think it’s so beautiful in every aspect. You have the curves, the flow, it’s emotional. It focuses on the female body in it’s full form. Art Nouveau also interprets insects, bugs, nature to create beautiful forms. I think it’s absolutely fantastic.”- María
Nash Quinn | The Absurd
María loves when objects have multiple purposes and when jewellery can be used in different ways. Themes of absurdity and movement is what interests María, she tends to compare jewellery with physics and chemistry!
“I love when objects have several purposes – especially when jewellery can be used in different ways or there is more to it than just an ornament. Quinn’s Absurdity collection is hilarious–and it makes you think at the same time. I love anything that implies movement, mechanical pieces with hinges, springs…”- María
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Micheal Berger | Kinetic Jewellery
María’s interest in versatile jewellery with movement is also inspired by the work of Micheal Berger. Berger’s kinetic designs are playful, with each ring taking the form of a sculpture that spins and moves on the hand. Berger views jewellery as not just self adornment, but also as something that has a function.
“Micheal Berger’s jewellery is full of movement- he creates sculptural, cohesive works that are inspired by the kinetic energy of the body. I am drawn to the jewellery’s energy, and the significance of the individual elements that create a unified piece”. – María
Maria's favourite design
Every ring we craft tells a story. Each of our incredibly talented design consultants are tasked with weaving this story into a fully-realised design, subtly imparting their flair and skill along the way. While each ring is designed with the utmost care and thought, our design consultants do have their favourites…
“The customer knew his partner so well, which is always a great way to start a bespoke design. He knew that she would truly appreciate a unique ring – something a bit adventurous and a bit quirky. I started sketching straight away during our consultation. I loved working on this ring, it was so unique.”- María
Driven by a perceptive sense of emotion, María treats every engagement ring like a work of art. Her determination to be the best at her craft always shines through and her intuition is what makes María so wonderful to work with.