If you're heading to London this summer, check out these five jewellers. They're not selling in Hong Kong but are worth watching out for. 'They're using gemstones to complement their artistry, with outstanding craftsmanship and original designs,' says Joanna Hardy, head of jewellery at
Sotheby's in London.
Stephen Webster
After entering the jewellery business in 1976, Stephen Webster set up his brand eight years later. He blends traditional techniques with designs inspired by contemporary music, fashion and street styles. His work is popular among rock musicians and celebrities, including Madonna and Christina Aguilera (he recently designed a microphone stand for her world tour). Highlights from his collections include a gold and diamond ring featuring a fish skeleton inspired by the cartoon Top Cat and the Twister pendant, which features two different gemstones on each side. His debut watch, The Libertine, is inspired by his signature thorn design and features a half diamond-encrusted bracelet with half strap.
Fiona Knapp
New Zealander Fiona Knapp moved to London in 1997 to study gemology and opened her boutique in 2003. Pop singer Robbie Williams is a fan - one of Knapp's rings flew off his finger mid-concert and he was pleasantly surprised when it was thrown back to him. Knapp's love of coloured gemstones and exotic travels translates to her jewellery - such as her cubist ring with multicoloured tourmalines, inspired by the Manhattan skyline, and her papal cross-inspired ring with five rubellites from the Mosaics collection. Her latest collection features Australian opals. 'I look for opals with every type of colour, including orange, blue and green,' says Knapp.