Designing Pieces You Will Love To Wear From Interited Gemstones
If you have interited jewellery that's sitting in a drawer because it's dated, too ornate or just the wrong size then you might be interested to hear about a service offered by Wendy Penrose
Over the past twenty years, she has been working with people to transform their heirloom pieces into contemporary jewellery that they love to wear.
To find out more I went to her studio, set in the beautiful grounds of Rose Cottage, near Henley on Thames. Her ready to wear collections were on display as I entered and it was like walking into a treasure trove. The strong, sculptural designs, inspired by nature were so unique and I was tempted to buy immediately.
But I held back because I was there to brief Wendy on a remodelling project. I inherited rings with beautiful diamonds in old fashioned setting which I have never worn. We discussed creating a new ring with them which would be a perfect fitting, one-of-a-kind design to suit my style and budget. The next step will be for Wendy to sketch options which we will develop together until I'm happy it.
Wendy has a large, loyal clientele and for many she has become the 'family jeweller', making pieces for weddings, birthdays and key milestones over the years. It's clear why people return. Wendy has a ready smile and a warm welcoming manner that immediately puts you at ease. She really listens to her customers' needs and it seems that she's only happy when they are delighted with their pieces.
When I asked Wendy what she likes about working with inherited stones, she said: "It's about helping people connect with the memory of those they love, but also to create something fresh and beautiful to be treasured by the next generation"
I'm really excited to see what she comes up with and can't wait to be able to finally wear my grandmother's diamonds every day.
Wendy warmly welcomes visitors to her studio, by appointment, to see her work, buy from her ready to wear collections and discuss commissions. To shop on line or arrange a meeting visit her website : wendypenrosejewellery.co.uk
