We are delighted to share our latest Q&A with world-renowned jeweller Vicki Sarge who talks of her passion for craftsmanship, history and the work she does with Turquoise Mountain supporting other women.
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Can you tell us about your background, your discovery of jewellery as a child and how you came to establish the world-renowned VICKISARGE label?I was a co-founder of Erickson Beamon which started in New York in 1983. I then set up a branch of the business the UK in 1985. I went on to set up my eponymous label in 2015. |
Can you tell us about your background, your discovery of jewellery as a child and how you came to establish the world-renowned VICKISARGE label?
I was a co-founder of Erickson Beamon which started in New York in 1983. I then set up a branch of the business the UK in 1985. I went on to set up my eponymous label in 2015.
I always had an interest in craft which I took up myself at a very early age. Also, during my teens, I became obsessed with fashion and jewellery. I bought myself a beautiful onyx ring from Saks at the tender age of 17. This was stolen from my NY apartment and left me heartbroken. I swore to never have such an attachment to a single piece of jewellery again.
Fashion jewellery offers the ability to adorn yourself with pieces that can constantly be changed. Of course, I have favourites but owning a jewellery company offers a lot of scope.
What materials do you work with?
We have a lot of vintage stock in crystals, chain, baubles, beads and findings. I would like to be as sustainable as possible, however a lot of the products we use are man-made. I do my best to buy old stock and give them new life. |
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We know you find inspiration in so many things, what is it about ancient culture and design that we all find so fascinating?
It is very important to remember history and how it affects us currently. Looking back at cultures and periods (such as Victorian) and then deconstructing them and mixing them together is really part of our DNA. Reinterpretation allows these ideas to be fresh whilst still playing homage to the romance of the past.
What do you enjoy the most about creating and designing jewellery?
I love that each day is unique and different. Work for me is never boring.
What are you working on at the moment?
We are currently helping out on Andrew Lloyd Weber’s new production of Cinderella which is exciting. We made a collection for Royal Collection based on the Queen’s Rose brooch to celebrate her birthday.
For our own collections we have two different routes. The first is a simpler chain and large hoop earring collection which has some Punk elements. This also goes into a pearl and chain 1980’s look.
The second half we are working on some very colourful pieces - which customers seem to be craving at the moment - kind of a Victorian/African remix.
Could you share with us 3 'pinch me' moments from your career?
. Definitely working on the film, 'The Favourite' was a highlight as the jewellery is so prominent.
. Working with both Galliano and McQueen in the 90’s.
. Michele Obama wearing our pieces - loved that!
Could you tell us a little about your work with Turquoise Mountain and what it means to you to provide a platform for women to work together and build businesses of their own?
I first worked in Afghanistan with Turquoise Mountain in around 2008 helping to set up the curriculum for the jewellery school. I have since worked them on a couple of projects in Saudi Arabia. The first was to set up a jewellery workshop for the use of women only and I helped them to get their designs going. Just recently I helped them with a project in Alula along with the School Head in Geneva where I also am teaching. This was sponsored by Piaget from the Richemont Group. It also involved working with the students to begin designing a collection.
Shop our Nini Basket |
And finally, could you tell us what is your favourite piece from the Zan collection?The tiny, round Nini basket! |