Trends in jewellery move more slowly than trends in fashion. Mikel Grant Jewellery understands this and aims to create enduring, relatable, mesmerizing pieces that stand the test of time.
“Due to materials and cost,” Grant explains, “women are less likely to buy something they see limited or seasonal value in. This helps to inform our designs to include ‘the little black dress’ philosophy into every piece . . . flexibility in use and timeless design.”
These handcrafted pieces are created with traditional methods and tools. Avoiding anything prefabricated, Grant ensures that every aspect of the work can be tailored and tweaked, buffed and balanced.
“An unfinished edge is sharp, a pre-made ear wire may be too small, weighted incorrectly . . . we finish the edges, we hand-fabricate the ear wires we use, we make sure it hangs right. An inanimate object handcrafted with these considerations has the ability to become totemic.”
Throughout the ages, jewellery making has fulfilled our desire for adornment. It has also created lasting connections. Connection between people. Connection with tradition, across time, and always using fine and ageless materials.
From a live/work studio space in Sechelt, Grant creates pieces that are beautiful, practical, and affordable. Stacking rings, collectible and with a comfortable price point, are a popular product, as are pieces that make wonderful keepsakes and gifts, such as charms.
Clients seldom look for whimsy. Practicality and harmony are always important. A few trends have emerged that help make jewellery wearable for any occasion. As Grant explains, “Rose gold has been trending for a few years, as have bi-metals (a mixture of silver and gold). Bi-metal pieces are very popular because you can use a single piece as a bridge for your other jewellery. If you want to wear a pair of gold hoops and a silver bangle, a necklace that includes silver and gold, like our Embrace necklace, brings them together aesthetically.”
Grant was raised by a supportive mother who encouraged creativity and experimentation. And while jewellery making isn’t exactly a family tradition, there are signs that an interest in this age-old craft might be in the blood. An old box of grandmother’s tools gives a clue.
“It was full of tools and metals and stones and receipts from the early 70’s” says Grant. “She had obviously taken some courses and done some work. How, why, or to what purpose is lost, but I do still use her saw all the time.”
Words | Nancy Pincombe Images | Mikel Grant
