Bharathi Raviprakash on reproducing rare antique jewellery

Jewellery designer Bharathi Raviprakash, owner of Studio Tara, talks about the pleasures behind the reproduction of rare antique jewellery.

Is your new collection based on any specific antique jewellery?
Not really — these pieces are inspired by antique jewellery I have seen over time and there is no specific format to the whole thing. In fact, I’d easily say that the collection is pretty random. I have to clarify that they aren’t reproduced to the tee; in fact, they are only influenced by them. The collection is divided into three segments; Floral, which is self-explanatory, Scarab (which is inspired by Egyptian motifs) and Uzbek (Afghani influence). Each of these designs carry a small segment of something that is antique.

Do you go around looking for ideas or do they come to you in random?
My inspiration is everywhere; I had once created a line based on chillies and insects — so it could really be all over the place. I take breaks very often and that is when I work best.

What kind of stones are you using for this specific collection?
By and large, I have used amethysts, misty moonstones, translucent tourmalines with the bluest turquoise, sunset corals and orange sapphires.

Do you think the concept of heirloom jewellery is disappearing?
Not really. People still buy one or two heavy pieces that they intend to pass down generations. You won’t obviously see them wearing it all the time unless it’s a very special occasion. But yes, the styles are definitely changing because the taste is changing.

What kind of a person would ideally wear your jewellery?
I think most of my customers are those who are slightly older because that’s how my designs are created. A woman who likes to make a statement with her jewellery, wouldn’t mind being a little experimental and can carry off creative pieces in style would be the ideal customer.

Do you also customise jewellery?
Absolutely. In fact, what you see at the store is only a showcase of what I can do. Most of my work is dependent on customisation that I handle through appointments. Usually, the client who comes in for customised jewellery probably owns one of my creations already. Once they get used to the label, they come in to get jewellery made.