Meet The Maker - Daniella Draper
Her work has been worn by Kate Moss and is never far from the high-fashion crowd
Can you tell us a bit about what you do?
I’m a jewellery designer and maker. Daniella Draper Jewellery is a luxury lifestyle jewellery brand, all designed by myself and made in my workshop. My collection is made up of necklaces, bangles, rings, earrings and dog tags all designed to be layered, mixed and worn together. The range is a mix of silver, gold and platinum, some pieces with precious or semi-precious stones.
How did you learn your skills?
I have a degree in Jewellery Design from Central Saint Martins in London.
Where do you source your materials?
I have various suppliers from all over the country – everything is sourced and produced here in the UK. Every month I go to Hatton Garden in London to stock up on precious and semi-precious stones.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere. I’m inspired by very old jewellery, as well as vintage books, classic films and by other designers, both new and old. I love to travel, and I get ideas when I’m out and about and see someone or something with a unique, interesting style.
What are you currently working on?
Right now I’m working on an engagement-themed collection. This is a series of unique platinum and diamond bands which use reclaimed diamonds from old jewellery. Lately I’ve been sourcing antique Victorian pieces, mostly unwearable, but with fabulous stones. I’m recycling these amazing stones and setting them in my own creations.
What has been your favourite project?
My favourite project is the ‘Cinderella’ collection. This is a range of one-off rings that cannot be resized, and will eventually find their true owner. I adore working with beautiful precious stones and I love making rings. At the moment I’m working with some big, fabulous Russian emeralds… their colour is just incredible!
What’s your favourite thing about your work?
I just love jewellery, so being able to create pieces of jewellery that I can wear myself is pretty awesome. Plus it never ceases to amaze me how thoughtful people can be.
What’s the hardest part of your job?
It’s always sad to part with my ‘Cinderella’ pieces.
What’s a typical day for you?
My day starts either with a morning walk or a jog along the beach. When I get to the office I answer emails, make sure the workshop is on track and work on my private commissions. Then dinner with family – I live with my sister so either we cook together or we nip over to our parents’, who live close by.
Where do you hope to be in five years?
In five years I hope to have more retail shops and grow a wholesale business. I would really like to be selling my jewellery globally. We have online customers all over the world as well as some celebrities who wear my pieces. I’ve been really lucky so far and I want to continue this organic growth.
Daniella Draper Jewellery, 1 Toll Gavel, Beverley
www.danielladraper.com