International Jewellery London is thrilled to be supporting the Retail Jeweller UK Jewellery Awards New Designer of the Year category in 2016.
To celebrate, we’re finding out a little bit more about the shortlisted designer-makers and brands, including IJL 2015 exhibitor Dalia Daou of Daou Jewellery.
Here the designer discusses her family history of jewellery design, the question she’d most like to ask a mentor and the stand-out jewels that always capture the attention of buyers.
Q: When did you found your brand and what is your background in jewellery design?
DD: I founded Daou Jewellery in London two years ago after training in gemmology at the GIA, design at Holts and CSM and after a lifetime of familiarity with fine jewellery and art practise. Daou was originally founded in 1930 in another world though and after an interrupted history I have revived the jewellery family name in London.
Q: How would you describe your design style and is there a particular woman you design for?
DD: Daou jewellery is modern and elegant, designed with thought, to be best shown off and complement the wearer when worn. The main inspiration being light in all its forms and effects, Daou also means light, and a slight reference to our 1930s origins. I design for all those who appreciate design and beauty, and for women who are all of the above but also intrinsically powerful and a little unexpected.
Q: Do you have any key collections or stand-out pieces that always seem to draw attention?
DD: The Sunset Sunrise collection hero rings are absolutely eye catching in their modern impressionistic style of tonal baguettes and brilliant sapphires and continue to be featured often. The new Sparks collection launched at IJL last September has been incredibly popular, both the delicate earrings and fine multi-way stacking rings.
Q: If you could learn one thing from a mentor or peer in the industry what would it be?
DD: How to reach more customers!
Q: Finally, do you have any experience exhibiting at IJL, and what was your impression of the show?
DD: I exhibited last September for the first time; the show was great, constantly busy and we spoke to so many varied visitors and exhibitors.
The Retail Jeweller UK Jewellery Awards 2016 will take place at the London Hilton on Park Lane on June 29th 2016. For information, please click here.
