The Bite Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2023 - Issue 34

bitejewellery She also worked with established Bath-based goldsmith Tina Engell as an assistant in the workshop and shop floor. “Here, I gained invaluable experience improving my making skills, run- ning a business and sales,” she explained. Tina hugely encour- aged me to create my business and I had access to her workshop to develop my collection. All these experiences allowed me to get to where I am now with my jewellery business.” After falling in love with a pair of fish skeleton earrings she found on holiday, Lara became obsessed with designing and making jewellery. “I had no experience before this, so all the designing I did didn’t make any sense from an actual making point of view, but I became desperate to understand the pro- cess to turn my ideas into reality.” Combining authentic design, quality craftsmanship, and sustainable, ethical practices is at the heart of her creative philosophy. “It ensures my pieces reflect both genuine artistic vision and enduring value. By crafting each piece with meticulous care, I establish a connection of trust with those who wear my jewel- lery.” The creative embraces sustainable materials and ethical business practices that underscore her commitment to the en- vironment and responsible production. “This approach repre- sents my dedication to meaningful design that respects both the wearer and the world we inhabit.” Lara sees fashion as a constantly evolving art form and an em- powering way to celebrate individuality. “Much like clothing, jewellery is a way to express personal identity. Allowing people to choose pieces that align with their style and showcase their individuality.” She describes Bristol's fashion landscape as re- flecting its vibrant cultural and artistic community that exudes a sense of freedom, non-conformity and a willingness to exper- iment with different styles. “Its ethos often reflects a conscious effort to prioritise sustain- ability and local craftsmanship. Street art, music subcultures and the city's rich history significantly shape the fashion scene, resulting in a dynamic blend of vintage, streetwear, bohemian and high-end aesthetics." Likewise, the jewellery industry is constantly evolving. "To do something creative, meaningful and fulfilling for a full-time job whilst continuing to learn and grow within the field is the best perk.” Her design signature entwines her love of life drawing and jew- ellery making into her creation process. “Many of my pieces feature an engraving or a model of a female figure with dia- mond accents and bold, weighty pieces made out of 18-carat yellow gold and silver.” The core inspiration of Lara’s latest col- lection stems from a pivotal jewellery piece, The Carousel, a tactile statement ring in 9-carat yellow gold with a citrine in the centre she designed and made to complete her apprenticeship in 2020. The initial ring was set atop a rotating band showcasing five hand-engraved female figures. "With a push, the ring would spin, allowing the wearer to select a chosen figure viewable through the gemstone, establishing a personalised connection with the piece. The essence of curiosity and whimsy is true to my latest collection, Hera, while adapting to more everyday wear while maintaining a focal point on the female form.” Designed to empower, the Hera Collection embodies the es- sence of modern feminism by uniting the soft curvature and serenity of the female form with the durability and strength of fine metals. Carla Signet Ring in polished 18-carat yellow gold with a matte silver band features a hand-engraved artistic god- dess symbol adorned with a titillating Canadian VS2 diamond accent. The accompanying Carla Necklace has the exact details as the ring but on an 18-inch polished silver chain. The Goddess Diamond Eternity Ring is an undeniable mas- terpiece that flawlessly incorporates the signature Hera motif throughout its entire circumference. This tactile 18-carat yellow gold band embodies the fusion of fierce femininity and uncon- ventional elegance. Almost similar, the Diamond Stacking Ring in 18-carat yellow gold and sterling silver is a testament to the harmonious fusion of strength and grace in fine metals featur- ing the signature Hera motif. Glow with the seductive and mesmerising Magnifier Signet Ring on your finger, showing a nude female figure enclosed and distorted in a hypnotic round cabochon citrine sphere. The bold Polly Signet Ring features the sultry matte silver band, caressing the female figure embellished with ethically sourced diamond nipple, like soft silk sheets. The staple LSD Ring designed in sterling silver with 18-carat yellow gold stamped LSD negates frivolities, stamped and simplistic in its approach. Images courtesy of We Are PR