WORDS BY JOSEPH FURNESS
A jewellery collection brimming with iconic designer names and logos is undoubtedly a luxury, but it can all feel a little unsentimental and, dare we say it, commercial without the addition of contemporary designs from independent labels.
Alinka, Petite Grand and Natalie Marie are prime examples of Australian jewellery brands that can provide a breath of fresh air to your bijoux box. From black diamond earrings to crossover rings, their unique offerings will add a modern touch to any trademark look.
As it’s summertime in Oceania, we spoke to the three jewellery brands to discuss their seasonal inspirations, the latest jewellery trends and more.
ALINKA
What are Alinka’s signature pieces?
We have several signature pieces, namely the Dasha earring, the ID necklace, the Katia ring and the Riviera necklace. Each makes an ideal gift for both new and returning customers.
What are the brand’s inspirations?
Alinka works exclusively with black and white diamonds, attesting to designer and founder Alina Barlow’s affinity for monochrome minimalism. The label has become a go-to for the modern Aussie woman seeking to elevate her everyday look with jewellery that reflects her unique sense of style. Alina – who designs each piece herself – is inspired by travel, art and design.
Who is the Alinka woman?
She has an appreciation for luxury and is confident in her own style. With her own voice, she dares to dream. She is fashion-forward; she is a global citizen; she is unapologetically herself.
How does Alinka jewellery reflect its Australian and Russian roots?
Each piece concurrently reflects Alina’s Russian heritage and her laid-back Aussie outlook. It is typical, here in Australia, for diamonds to be worn from dusk to dawn – paired with a sweater en-route to morning yoga and under the red-carpet spotlight at night. We like to encourage our customers to make the most of their jewellery and wear their diamonds as often as possible.
What are the key summer jewellery trends at Alinka?
More is more: we love to layer Alinka jewellery to create a maximalist look. Each of our pieces is designed to be mixed and matched with existing Alinka pieces. Alina has multiple piercings and loves stacking the Stasia Triple Star ear cuff alongside the Stasia diamond stud. She believes that black diamonds add a dose of drama to any outfit.
Why should everyone invest in an Alinka piece for the new year?
Established in 2015, we’re known for our diamonds of exceptional quality and our sculptural jewellery designs. Every piece is made with either 18kt white, yellow or rose gold, and is available with white or black diamonds. Designed to be seamlessly layered, each of our pieces is extremely versatile and, most importantly, timeless.
ALINKA Katia Diamond Ring/ ALINKA ID Diamond Necklace/ ALINKA Stasia Triple Star Diamond Left Air Cuff/ ALINKA 18kt White Gold Riviera Diamond Bracelet
Petite Grand
What are Petite Grand’s signature pieces?
Our signature pieces vary from season to season, but I would say our unique hoops, beaded earrings, and cord bracelets and necklaces are core to our brand.
What are the brand’s inspirations?
Petite Grand creates fine jewellery inspired by the world, artistic offerings and the spirit of cultural discovery. Each piece is handmade to tell a story inspired by travel.
Who is the Petite Grand woman?
Our woman is spirited; she yearns for journeys internally and across the globe. She has an emphatic obsession with collecting: gathering memories, relics and sacred moments. She is not tied down by age and has an elegant, timeless style.
How does Petite Grand jewellery reflect its Serbian and Australian roots?
Petite Grand combines the relaxed and effortless vibe of Australia with a little Serbian edge. This equation makes for unexpected, dimensional pieces that always appear effortless.
What are the key summer jewellery trends at Petite Grand?
Deep emeralds, dusty pinks and marmalade tones unite with gold and sterling silver foundations to encourage wearers to reflect on the important things in life.
Delicate and lightly braided chains, infinite knots and unexpected geometric hoops are also key to the new season. Chaptered by symbols, the pieces tell stories of global wanderings experienced by our designer.
Why should everyone invest in a Petite Grand piece for the new year?
Our approach is timeless, modern and innovative. Each piece will make a statement without ever appearing overbearing. We like to view our goods as keepsakes; forever pieces that will last a lifetime.
Petite Grand Bar Cord Bracelet/ Petite Grand The Maiden Earrings/ Petite Grand Gemstone Hoops/ Petite Grand Garden Necklace
Natalie Marie
What are Natalie Marie’s signature pieces?
Our signature pieces include our stacking rings (which we love to layer), our timeless Queenie band (often purchased for weddings) and our striking rutilated quartz ring.
What are the brand’s inspirations?
Inspiration to us is endless; we often find it in the most unexpected places. We are predominantly inspired by the world around us, especially the remarkable people in our lives.
Who is the Natalie Marie woman?
In three words, the Natalie Marie woman is conscious, diverse and discerning.
What are the key summer jewellery trends at Natalie Marie?
We are not trend-led as our designs are minimal at heart. Quality craftsmanship and sustainable creation are the things that drive us and we believe in creating pieces that will be handed down for generations to come.
We are currently exploring texture and we’re particularly drawn to the organic nature of the materials that we’re using. We’re honouring stones and materials in their true state, letting them guide us to designs that pay homage to our traditional craftsmanship techniques. We’re enjoying creating abstract silhouettes with rough, reticulated surfaces and angular shapes, juxtaposed with soft, languishing formats and smooth, interwoven wires.
Why should everyone invest in a Natalie Marie piece for the new year?
We see jewellery as a tangible expression of sentiment, embodying a memory, a feeling, a commitment or a moment in time. Jewellery presents a unique opportunity to connect with a wearable object on a deeper level.