Cover Jeweller Erica Concepcion-Reyes tells Tatler where she draws inspiration from;
Jeweller Erica Concepcion-Reyes tells Tatler where she draws inspiration from;
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In this write-up, Erica Concepcion Reyes shares her favourite pieces, her specialities, and why she continues to be inspired by her great grandmother Victoria Lopez de Araneta
This Filipino jeweller always had a keen eye for striking antique materials that she could turn into mesmerising accessories. In a dialogue with Tatler, the talented artisan tells us more about her craft.
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In many of your interviews, you mentioned that your works have been heavily influenced by your paternal great grandmother Victoria Lopez de Araneta. Why is that so?
I have always been inspired by heritage and drawn to vintage pieces in particular; this was a trait passed down to me by my great-grandmother, Doña Victoria Lopez-Araneta. I draw inspi-
ration from vintage pieces that I have inherited from her. She loved jewellery.
A retro ruby and diamond brooch in platinum;
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One of your specialities is reworking vintage jewellery finds; can you please tell us more about this creative process?
Most jewellers have a design in mind and buy materials according to the design they want to execute. I often work with antique material that I want to use, be it an estate diamond or a vintage cameo or an antique ivory hand. From there, the design builds and grows, depending on my inspiration.
For reworking vintage jewellery finds, it always starts with something old and something totally current. I am always inspired by vintage pieces which I like to combine with contemporary elements.
More from Tatler: Designer Lilianna Manahan Launches Her First Jewellery Collection
What materials do you use?
My favourite materials are corals, coloured gemstones, pearls, diamonds and vintage coins.
Which among your works is your favourite?
It is difficult to choose just one favourite piece. I love what I do, everything that comes out of my workshop is a favourite! I have the most fun when I make custom charm necklaces and bracelets. It’s always exciting to see the personal charms that clients bring out, the stories they tell, which we incorporate in custom charms and vintage pieces. These charm necklaces and bracelets are whimsical, truly one-of-a-kind and special, something that can be passed on from one generation to the next.
This story was originally published in the February 2022 issue of Tatler Philippines. Download it on your digital device through Zinio, Magzter, or Pressreader.
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Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.
When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.
