The Vault: Sana Aziz

The talented jewellery designer, Sana Aziz shares some of her most unique designs and how she ended up in the business of jewellery making

How and when did you become interested in jewellery?

I moved to Scotland for undergraduate studies at the University of Dundee. Within the first few hours spent inside their jewellery workshop, I found myself instinctively manipulating, forging and texturing metal to create exciting forms. I could visualise these as potentially wearable pieces of art and was captivated by the infinite possibilities of creative expression using jewellery making techniques. Immediately I had decided that this was something I wanted to pursue professionally.

What are your favourite pieces of jewellery (precious or costume)?

I have recently treated myself to an exquisite diamond ring which I will admit is my absolute favourite at the moment! Out of my own creations however, The Kundan Alligator Teeka from our collection ‘Safari’ was perhaps one of the most technically challenging to create and is therefore the most rewarding to wear. Another favourite would be a hair-clip I designed for our first collection ‘Mumtaz’. The piece holds particular significance for me as it was the first step towards establishing my jewellery brand.



Where did you get them?

My collection of jewellery has been acquired from different places and different times. While some pieces were carefully selected after a lot of thought, others are often spontaneous buys. My own creations are designed in our studio, following which they are meticulously crafted by a team of skilled craftsmen in our workshop in Lahore.

Is there any piece you are emotionally attached to and why?

Undoubtedly, the sentimental value of a jewel is often greater than its inherent value. This is precisely what makes my late grandmother’s ring one of the most beautiful and precious pieces I own. It is a dainty strip of silver embellished with a simple hammered motif. It is a shame I don’t allow myself to wear it, out of the fear that I might lose it!

Share a story with us about how you acquired one of your favourite pieces?

One of my favourite pieces of jewellery is a delicate nose ring, crafted in gold and adorned with rubies that I found at our family jewellers. I liked it so much that I spontaneously bought it, and then went ahead and got my nose pierced just so I could wear it!

Is there anything on your radar that you want to get in the future?

I would love to own the traditional Hansli necklace by Amrapali, Jaipur. It is indeed one of the finest displays of craftsmanship. While the front showcases exquisite polki, the reverse is intricately adorned by enamel. Its shape makes it very unusual, and I definitely have my eye on it!