Jewellery is one of the oldest and finest art forms: often symbolic, always embedded in a culture and undeniably designed to enhance or flatter.
Now a new young British jewellery designer, Touran Reddaway, has drawn on the beauty of the finest Byzantine and Persian treasures to create a range of handmade 18-carat gold jewellery that combines symbolic forms from old customs and beliefs with a modern collection of exquisite designs.
Comprising necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, brooches and rings, Touran has named her range Firouzeh – a combination of her mother’s Iranian family name and the Fahsi for turquoise, the semi-precious stone favoured in Eastern jewellery as a symbol of heat and health.
Twenty-three year old Touran’s designs are already attracting high profile customers, including the Prime Minister’s wife, Samantha Cameron, who has a Firouzeh Byzantine Angel pendant and a pair of bespoke-design earrings.
Touran works side by side with some of the finest Persian and Turkish craftsmen and goldsmiths to bring history to life through these unique pieces of art. Made using 18 carat gold mixed with pure silver as an alloy, Firouzeh pieces reflect the brilliant colour of 24 carat pure gold which beautifully offsets the Onyx, Turquoise, Pearls and other semi-precious stones set into many key pieces.
Every piece has a story behind it, whether inspired by a particular treasure, place or ancient tale which has captured Touran’s imagination and passion for history. Through the collection, Touran hopes to bring to a wider audience a side of Iranian and Byzantine culture which is often forgotten amongst the current turmoil in the region; the rich history, creativity and art which were born there.
Pieces are priced from around £100 for a single charm on a cord to several thousand pounds for one of the most intricate necklaces and settings. Individual prices are available on request – see site for contact details – and Touran will also take commissions to create personal bespoke pieces. Touran is currently selling her jewellery direct to clients but is looking to secure a partnership with a major retailer to bring the Firozeh range to the high street.
To learn more about this gold bracelet, visit Touran Reddaway.