When did you get interested in jewellery?
My interest in jewellery started to flourish as a young girl. My maternal grandmother was an avid collector of diamond and gold jewellery sets, which she generously passed down to her nine children, including my mother. I remember my mother kept them immaculately in a blue Samsonite jewellery case. As a child, I spent hours marvelling at the craftsmanship and magnificence of these delightful gemstones. You could safely say I was mesmerised. The enchantment has still not worn off; it’s probably the reason why I remain just as passionate about jewellery.
Is there any piece you are emotionally attached to and why?
An Iranian turquoise and Basra pearl set which is handcrafted in gold. I inherited it through my father, Salman Taseer’s, English mother. It is the most elegant and quaint set of jewellery I own. I am very sentimental about it as it is a remnant of a time which has now wafted away, since my father and grandmother are no longer with me. The set brings back an avalanche of sweet memories, which I hold dear. I remember the soft blue turquoise and haunting whiteness of the Basra pearls against my grandma, Christabel Belquis Taseer’s luminous skin. I used to tell my mother I wanted this set since I was a little girl. Today it is mine to enjoy and cherish, but the people no longer are! The irony is bitter sweet.
What are your favourite pieces of jewellery (precious or costume)?
I am in the business of fine jewellery and create marvellous pieces regularly. However, my favourite pieces are heirlooms that I have inherited through generations, as a lot of vintage craftsmanship is impossible to recreate. My modern day favourites include diamond chandelier earrings, which are definitely a must-have, and large cocktail rings, which are a guaranteed conversation starter. I also love eye-catching bangles, tassel necklaces and funky hand jewellery. As a jewellery designer, it’s rather difficult to have a favourite, as time and trends bring fresh designs to the forefront.
Where did you get them?
I design and create my own pieces. They are manufactured in Hong Kong, Italy and Thailand.
Share a story with us about how you acquired one of your favourite pieces?
Another piece I treasure is a pearl and gold bangle passed to me by my maternal grandmother, Begum Haji Gul Saigol. She called me to her room one day, and slipped it on my wrist from her own. It was her last gift to me before she passed away. Jewellery has the ability to capture happy moments that stay with you for generations. This bangle brings a smile to my face whenever I look at it.
Is there anything on your radar that you want to get in the future?
Since I design and create pieces, my wish list includes certain design themes that I want to work on. Traditionally I am a diamond jeweller, however, I want to start a line of gold jewellery this year. I am eagerly working on concepts to create very funky filigree gold jewellery.
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