Favourite jewellery designers... #1

How many jewellery designers does it take to influence another jewellery designer? Well in my case, quite a lot actually. First there were my teachers at Central St Martin's (the lovely Linda Robertson and Liz Olver among them). Then there are those who I learned from (and continue to do so) just by looking - and of these I admit there are many.
First up on my list (but not necessarily number one in terms of preference) is Mr Shaun Leane, Shauny I like to call him (no, I've never met him or even had any connection with him, incase you were wondering...).
Why Shauny first? Well because he has a new collection out, available from his own website and for the first time via the Astley Clarke website (both drool-making experiences, to be sure). Best known for his spiky, punctured hearts (to die for) and horn-like bangles (ditto), Shauny is this year's UK Jewellery Designer of the Year. Ta ra.
The new collection is called Cherry Blossom and just as delicious as his previous work. There are blossom rings, pendants and earrings, all of which are much more delicate than the spiky hearts – but still with an edge. Yum. Love you Shauny.
Of course, he's not the first (nor will he be the last) to use flowers as inspiration for fine jewellery. My own Flower Power pieces for notonthehighstreet.com (with some soon to be launched on rokchix.com) are equally blossom-influenced. And quite cute too, even if I do say so myself!