Whilst we celebrate International Women’s Day in March, now more than ever is the perfect time to take our hats off and applaud the talented female jewellery designers that light up our lives with sparkle.
Here at Mappin & Webb, we are lucky to house a wealthy representation of luxury jewellery brands, with accomplished women as their driving force. These women have harnessed their past, present and future to build brands that each sing to unique audiences. With a commonality of passion and creative flair within their DNA, they navigate their brand through today’s world, skilfully crafting exquisite jewellery that reflects their own life experiences, fused with an innate love to create something beautiful.
Whilst we applaud all designers who front our luxury jewellery brands, today we would like to shine the spotlight upon British Designer, Kiki McDonough.
Introducing Kiki McDonough
A love of timeless, feminine jewellery and a passion for coloured gemstones led Kiki McDonough to establish her brand in 1985. Her rainbow of designs harnessed a contemporary aesthetic, and she gained immediate recognition from the V&A Museum who chose to display her very first creation in their revered jewellery gallery. This cemented her position within the modern landscape of luxury jewellery design.
As the only woman amongst five generations of jewellers, McDonough was determined to become a success and share her joy of jewellery. With colour, creativity and craftsmanship at the core of her brand, and a mission to elevate the everyday, the designs of Kiki McDonough have become a favourite amongst generations, including the British Royal Family.
The Inspiration Behind the works of Kiki McDonough
McDonough has a passion for all the finest gemstones but coloured gemstones are most definitely held in the highest esteem. Whilst many designers gain recognition for their craftsmanship with diamonds, McDonough felt that coloured gemstones were underrated. With colour notoriously recognised as a mood-enhancer, these gemstones were the obvious choice to elevate the everyday and influence an emotional and joyous connection between her fine jewellery designs and the recipient.
A little colour always lifts the mood, I greatly enjoy hearing my customers say how happy they feel wearing my pieces, no matter what the occasion.Kiki McDonough – Creative Director and Founder of Kiki McDonough
McDonough not only draws on her passion for coloured gemstones, but also on her own life experiences, including a love of the ballet, flowers, and travel. Her love of the ballet with its graceful movements, beautiful costumes, and feminine lines has been a huge inspiration throughout some of her collections.
McDonough’s success has not seen her take a back seat. After more than three decades of experience she continues to remain involved in the design process – from sourcing and choosing incredible gemstones from reputable stone dealers to creating new versatile and wearable jewellery designs to be enjoyed by women everywhere.
Discover Kiki McDonough jewellery here at Mappin & Webb online or visit us in store at one of our showrooms where our jewellery experts will be delighted to help you find the perfect piece.
