As part of International Jewellery London’s 2018 focus on all-things bridal, we spoke to Clogau managing director, Ben Roberts, to discover how the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has shaped the brand’s efforts this year.
Plus, he offers insights into the brand’s recently relaunched Compose by Clogau®collection.
How did Clogau respond to the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and what do you think are the benefits of a royal wedding for British brands?
To commemorate the wedding of HRH Prince Henry of Wales and Ms Meghan Markle Clogau launched a limited edition jewellery collection. Each piece of Windsor Pearl jewellery was limited to just 120 and set with freshwater pearls and white topaz in either yellow or rose gold. The scallop shell design was a truly fitting and elegant tribute to the British Royal Family and beautifully celebrated the wonderful royal wedding which will took place on 19th May 2018 at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.
We launched six limited edition Milestones Royal Clogau sterling silver and 9ct rose gold bead charms for the celebrations, which were limited to just 75 of each design. Plus, we hosted a live TV screening of the momentous occasion, along with wonderful offers at the Clogau flagship boutiques in Cardiff, Broughton and Westfield London.
How do you think the Meghan Markle effect is influencing jewellery?
There is no doubt that the new Duchess of Sussex is having a very successful influence on both fashion and jewellery. What we have seen is that the Duchess is usually styling smaller, daintier pieces and notably mix and matched with different designs and brands.
Wearing different, complementary pieces from different collections is a style we love to celebrate at Clogau. Although we have a number of different collections within our portfolio, each piece, whether from the same collection or not, will always complement another and can be worn together.
Our signature design and statement rose gold detail is what allows our customers to do this and enjoy styling their own look with our jewellery.
What bridal collections will Clogau be focusing on at IJL 2018?
Clogau unveiled new bridal ring styles as part of the Compose by Clogau® re-launch in early July. The re-launch follows months of research and planning to develop and perfect the bridal offering, including six new ring designs.
Compose by Clogau® enables brides-to-be the opportunity to discover their own bridal style, from romantic and elegant to glamorous and stylish, truly expressing their individuality and capturing the magic of their love story.
The re-launch also sees the bridal range available to purchase on Clogau’s website for the first time since its initial launch in 2014. Alongside the e-commerce website, the bridal rings are available to purchase at our St. David’s Cardiff, Westfield London and Broughton Shopping Park stores and via Compose by Clogau® retail partners.
Looking ahead to 2019, what can existing retail partners and new customers expect from Clogau in the coming months?
In 2019 Clogau will be celebrating 165 years since gold was discovered at the Clogau St David’s mine and 30 years since the Clogau brand was founded. The unique brand pillars of rare Welsh gold, heritage, storytelling and celebration will be highlighted throughout the year with exciting events and exclusive collections; more to be announced soon!
Don’t miss Bridal at IJL sponsored by Hockley Mint – a new showcase dedicated to beautiful bridal jewellery, trends and international influences. To find out more, visit our Breadth of Bridal page.
I really like the yellow engagement ring. It is very beautiful.