While browsing through Shopbop‘s massive jewelry selection earlier this week I came upon a jewelry designer I had not heard of before, but was instantly intrigued. So I took it upon myself to do a little research about this line named Deepa Gurnani.
While studying fashion at the prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London, Deepa Gurnani beaded couture pieces for Alexander McQueen, Ben Maher, Emanuel Ungaro, Fendi, Marjan Pejoski, and other huge names in the industry. Working closely with these designers not only taught Deepa to understand European standards of quality and finish, but also compelled her to experiment with beading and embroidery techniques.
She then met Jay Lakhani, a jewelry designer from the Fashion Institute of Technology, NYC, who had always dreamt of creating jeweled accessories. Having trained under the head designers of Tiffany and Bvlgari and working in the fine jewelry industry, for eight years, with some of the largest retailers and manufacturers, Jay was always drawn to fashion and created statement jewelry to compliment it and give the wearer a distinct sense of style and individuality.
After the two married, they collaborated their ideas and launched their label “Deepa Gurnani.” Their first line was sold at Henri Bendels in November 2006 and is now sold in various stores across the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia.
Each piece is individually handcrafted with the finest quality materials and crystals, by highly trained and skilled craftsmen. The designers add their final and personal touch to every piece by paying particular attention to quality and finish. They also make hair accessories, belts and bags, but it was the jewelry that really spoke to me.
Let’s take a look shall we?
Shop the Deepa Gurnani collection here.
To browse the collection (but no retail) visit: deepagurnani.com
– Lauren Dimet Waters
