We caught up with fine jewellery designer Temple St. Clair Carr, of Temple St. Clair to chat about her unique collection and what inspires her.
HR: When did you know you wanted to become a jewellery designer?
St. Clair Carr: I’ve always fancied myself an adventurer and explorer. I studied Italian literature and art history in Florence for what turned out to be a 12-year sojourn. Early on, I became fascinated with gold and goldsmithing after being asked by my mother to find her an ancient coin to make into a necklace. What began as an errand turned in to a fascination and a life long career.
HR: You are know for using unique and beautiful gemstones, what is your favourite?
St. Clair Carr: I love blues and greens, so I particularly treasure emeralds and particular shades of tourmaline . Lately, I’ve been seeking out Paraiba tourmaline which is probably the rarest of all colored gems. It is an exotic blue green and sometimes Caribbean blue. Each one is unique in color and completely mesmerizing.
HR: How would you describe your collections?
St. Clair Carr: I am uncompromising with regards to the quality of jewellry I create. The gems, metal and workmanship must be world class. Beyond the expected quality, my jewels have a sophistication and whimsy that makes them desirable as true collectibles and statement pieces.
HR: What’s your design process like? How long does it take to create each piece?
St. Clair Carr: My design process is multi-faceted. I like to research themes, stories, symbols or myths that I am inspired by to translate in to jewellry as in my Celestial collection or Tree of Life collection. Just as often, a fantastic gem will speak to me and inspire me to create a one-of-a-kind setting. Generally, I am working on collections that take up to two years to come to fruition.
HR: Where do you feel most inspired?
St. Clair Carr: Carefree travel and exploration inspire me most. I love to spend as much time as possible with my family observing the natural world above ground and under water, as on a recent trip to the Galapagos. I equally enjoy cultural trips: meandering through exotic markets in India or North Africa, or revisiting a favorite painting in Florence. I make sketches and take many photographs to capture every detail.
HR: What is the one piece of jewellery that every woman should have?
St. Clair Carr: Not to be self serving BUT…. my rock crystal amulets on long gold chains are pretty much the most perfect jewel around. They are versatile and elegant and come in a variety of designs to please most any individual taste. I live in my classic oval chain with my vine amulet whether walking my dog through Soho or dining out with my husband!
Tags: Designer, Fine Jewellery, holt renfrew, Jewellery, Temple St. Clair
