Reflections on Timeless Craft and Future Designs

What's the magic in a piece that speaks to you?

Whether a piece is a cherished heirloom or a fresh creation, what draws you in? Perhaps it’s the tactile history hidden in every bead, the legacy passed down through countless hands, or simply the interplay of unique shapes and exciting colours. When objects step outside their original context, their innate beauty often becomes even more pronounced, inviting us to see them in a new light.

This month, I’ve been delving into the inspiring world of crafting techniques that have profoundly influenced my creative journey, with stone engraving and etching foremost among them. For over 12 years, I’ve had the honour of sourcing hand-etched stones from an Afghan family in Istanbul, whose remarkable artistry feels both timeless and intimately connected to history. These stones now play a vital role in many Cleopatra’s Bling pieces, weaving a narrative that spans ancient traditions and modern design.

Becoming a mother has shifted the way I see the world, opening my eyes to creativity in a new, yet deeply familiar way. Lately, I’ve felt a strong pull toward the early days of my craft, when my approach to making was more instinctive, playful, and unburdened by expectation. There’s a nostalgia in me for that time, when my sole purpose was to explore, create, and lose myself in the joy of making in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. I have my daughter, Alba, to thank for this return to the source, for reminding me of the feeling that first set me on the path to creating Cleopatra’s Bling.

My journey through motherhood has reawakened a sense of spontaneity and fun in my creative process (it’s very easy to get stuck in the business side of running a brand). This renewed energy naturally connects with the timeless appeal of my statement designs. Much like hand engraved stones that tell stories of the past, they serve as a tangible link between history and today, grounding Cleopatra’s Bling in both personal inspiration and enduring craftsmanship.

The work of the skilled artisans brings to mind the intricately carved seals of ancient Mesopotamia, artifacts used to mark ownership and seal transactions. Much like those historical seals, these stones are not only practical but are also laden with beauty and protective symbolism. Carrying even a hint of that legacy into the present makes every piece feel truly special.

What I love most about these stones is their dual character: speaking stories of a past but for a modern wearer. Each one is carefully hand-etched, imbued with meaning and detailed artistry. When set into jewellery, they transcend their material form, becoming a blend of past significance, present passion, and the unique stories of those who wear them.

As I work on my 2026 designs, I find myself deeply reminded of the origins of Cleopatra’s Bling and the very beginnings of this creative journey.

Embracing both the legacy of the past and the promise of the future, I strive to explore, create, and reimagine.

What about you? What is it that draws you to a particular piece of jewellery? When choosing a piece, what qualities or stories resonate most with you? How do you connect with the history or craftsmanship behind the design?

I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences.

x Olivia