Without the talented team here at W&W we wouldn’t be able to create the striking bespoke designs for which we have become renowned. From gemstone experts to design connoisseurs and of course quality control, our small but mighty team offers a wealth of jewellery knowledge and creative flair. Read on to meet Ashleigh, W&W’s Jewellery Administrator…
Tell us a bit about your background and your role at W&W
My role at W&W is extremely broad and requires me to wear many different hats! As well as sourcing diamonds and gemstones and liaising with our amazing goldsmiths, I am responsible for sharing any enquiry that comes through the door with the team. I also quality control every single piece we create to ensure our clients receive only the highest standard of jewellery.
I am also responsible for photographing each incredible piece and preparing the beautiful images we share with the world on our website and social media channels.
Studying Fashion Design led me to the captivating world of jewellery. During lockdown I learnt to create my own designs and built up my skills in handcrafted jewellery, while also working in luxury retail in central London. I am now at the beginning of my career in the jewellery industry, and I am learning so much at W&W!
You joined the team in February 2023, what do you love about working at W&W and what has been your highlight so far?
I love that I engage in every part of the bespoke process and make it my mission to learn from and be involved in absolutely everything we work on. I feel so lucky that a large part of my role revolves around the production process. I have got to see some incredible gemstones, including three gorgeous colourless pear cut diamonds, pigeon blood red rubies and an ocean blue boulder opal with flashes of electric green, it was the size of the palm of my hand!
What do you think it is that makes W&W unique in the world of bespoke jewellery?
The collective talents of the W&W team are an incredible USP. They allow us to guide and enable our clients to visualise and commission their perfect piece, from a jaw dropping unique engagement ring, to a gift for a loved one or the piece of their dreams. We genuinely enjoy what we do, which translates into the quality of jewellery we deliver and ensures that our clients enjoy their bespoke experiences. Our clients really are at the heart of the process.
Tell us about your all-time favourite piece of jewellery and why you love it?
On a recent trip to Barcelona, I visited the Park Guell, although not jewellery, it felt like the buildings were made from glistening gemstones. The colours and patterns used in the sea serpent mosaic on the main terrace bench were beautiful, I felt so inspired. The rest of the city was consistent with this vibrant colour, a beautiful celebration of Barcelonian culture.
The city is filled with fascinating small independent jewellers, potters and fashion designers tucked away on the old town streets. Breaking the boundary of what jewellery could be, I tried on a pair of earrings made from the lace of a 20th century wedding dress!
What W&W piece has left a big impression on you?
I have seen so many wonderful custom jewellery pieces at W&W, but will always remember taking pictures of a handmade ring featuring a 5.21 carat radiant cut fancy intense yellow diamond during my first few weeks at W&W. It even had 3.20 carats of baguette cut diamonds in the band! I had never held anything quite that beautiful before (my hands were shaking!). It really opened my eyes to the skill and craftsmanship required to design and create such an impressive ring.