A Celebration of Nature’s Elegance

The Bespoke Artistry of Kirsty Berry

Each individual is an intricate amalgamation of experiences, culture, knowledge, and style. These facets of life’s profound journey leave their mark on every aspect of our existence. In this magnificent tapestry of diversity, there’s every reason for the way we express ourselves and possessions to mirror the depths of our hearts. Bespoke jewellery serves as an emblem of reflection, transcending to an allure that only personal expression can attain.

Luxury jeweller Laings believes in the power of storytelling and respects the importance of bespoke design in the retail landscape. With a legacy spanning over 180 years, Laings has cultivated and nurtured the creativity of designers, positioning itself as a leader in fostering the talent of tomorrow. In 2024, Laings expanded the coveted Hero of Bespoke collection, showcasing the talents of Scottish-born designer Kirsty Berry. Graduating from The Glasgow School of Art in 2004, her design journey has been a source of inspiration within the business. Discussing the Ula collection, Kirsty’s voice is filled with enthusiasm as she recounts her journey up until this moment. Joining us for an overview of her journey, her passion for this craft is contagious, her story inspiring.

Tell us about your unique identity as a designer
I am always mesmerised by bright colours and bold shapes; I think this is why I am always drawn to coloured stones. I see myself in modern jewellery designs with a classic twist. I am definitely a bit of a magpie – anything sparkling catches my eye.

What art movement/artists inspire your designs?
I love Art Deco, Modernism and Pop art, I find inspiration across a lot of different periods and try to reflect this in my work.

Could you share insights into the design process for the Hero of Bespoke collection? What were the key design elements and principles that guided your creative decisions?
I always take inspiration from my surroundings, the artistry of those around me can always bring about new ideas for designs. These exact pieces came together when I first set my eyes on the unique lagoon tourmaline, the design really grew from there. Their beauty was mesmerising and really captured the spirit of the ocean.

The collection is greatly inspired by floral motifs from bouquets to paisley prints, do you often find inspiration for bespoke pieces in the world surrounding you?
I get inspired every day by nature and the world we live in. An idea can surprise me from anywhere, sometimes I can walk by a window display in a store and be influenced by the colours and shapes.

Why do you believe bespoke jewellery holds such an allure? What sets it apart from more non-bespoke creations?
It’s all in the exclusivity and uniqueness. The design will reflect what the client loves and quite often each piece of jewellery tells a story, whether it’s a family heirloom that has been re-modelled or a special gemstone that has been chosen unique to the wearer.

Are there any upcoming trends or emerging design philosophies in the world of bespoke jewellery that you are excited to explore in your work?
I feel people are becoming more adventurous. More and more clients are interested in exploring coloured gemstones. What I’ve noticed is people really want to showcase their individuality. The power of social media has allowed people to see the trends happening elsewhere in the world, generating a whole new line of creativity for designers.

How do you work with clients to help them realise their vision when creating a bespoke piece? What is the collaborative process like?
One of my favourite parts of the design process is the initial meeting with the client, researching new concepts and layering different ideas together to create a piece of jewellery – I love it when an idea starts to become reality. The most special moment is always when you create something the client loves. It is when they pick it up and put it on, that’s when it becomes a piece of jewellery for me. That’s when it becomes special.

What feelings do you want to encapsulate in your designs?
I always get excited, whether its re-modelling a family heirloom or sourcing beautiful gemstones, I love having that freedom to let my imagination run loose and create something that the client will love to wear. I hope that joy is translated into each piece I create.

Kirsty’s bespoke Ula collection is part of the elegant Hero of Bespoke collection at Laings. An exercise in precision artistry and remarkable craftsmanship, The Hero of Bespoke collection is a love letter to the traditions of fine jewellery design. Bringing together masters of craft, the collection perfectly evokes their magnificent imaginations. Kirsty’s collection consists of the beautiful Ula pendant, a Toi Et Moi ring and a cushion cut ring with stones ranging from the rare unheated teal tanzanite to lush lagoon tourmalines.
Begin your own bespoke journey at Laings by visiting your local showroom or emailing

bespoke@laingsuk.com
Laings Edinburgh
72 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 3BX
Laings Glasgow
70 Buchanan Street, Rowan House, Glasgow, G1 3JE