How do ancient skills lead to new designs?
What's the magic in a piece that speaks to you?
Our founder Olivia reflects on the beauty of the old, and how it feeds future designs. To read the full article for free, and access more of Olivia's personal stories, recipes, and photos, you can find her Substack, here.
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.
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.
To view the video above, and read the entire text explaining the connections between Mesopotamian carvings and the jewellery of today, visit our Substack, here.
