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Austen & Blake embraces the old money jewellery revival with new collection
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When it comes to investment jewellery, it can be really hard to know where (or even how) to start. Well, I (and, by extension, Austin & Blake) am here to help.
I’ll hold my hands up: I’m fussy. And, all too often when I’m shopping, I use the phrase “I like this, but I wish it was more [insert very specific detail here]”. And that is the curse of working in fashion for as long as I have.
However, it would seem as though brands are catching on to our love of the customisable – including Austin & Blake, which has just debuted its Era collection.
Designed in-house with inspiration from antiques and traditional techniques, Austin & Blake’s aptly named ‘Era’ collection invites us, mere shoppers, to add our own touches to their luxury jewels. Where every design is made-to-order, customers can select and personalise everything from preferred diamond specifications (e.g., lab-grown vs natural) to precious metal to even diamond cut and shape for a modern heirloom that is totally yours.
Should that sound a little daunting, however, then fear not; I’ve gone through the selection to pick out my favourite engagement ring, earrings, and necklace that carve out an elegant and deeply personal place in any collection.
With your choice of diamond clarity, size, cut and carat, this Era Solitaire engagement ring is totally open to your interpretation. The setting detailing, though, also deserves a moment in the limelight; designed to maximise the appearance of the gemstone you choose, it’s supported by cathedral shoulders that lift the diamond and an open basket that reveals its shine, also allowing for a flush fit with the wedding band to come.
Nothing displays a diamond like the dropped detail on these Austen & Blake earrings. Designed to capture and reflect light with every movement, this pair even allows you to customise your preferred earring backing as well as all the aforementioned Era collection customisations, including ten different options of precious metals.
There’s something about a bezel setting that I just cannot resist. Set with four elegant talon claws, this Solitaire pendant hangs from a chain of your choice, in a metal of your choice. My selection would be a princess-cut, lab-grown diamond in yellow gold on a curb chain... if you’re asking.