At in klöver, we stock everything from art, ceramics, pottery items and stationery through to textiles, glass, natural soap and artisan foods. We also sell several ranges of jewellery at in klöver of which Clare Elizabeth Kilgour's minimalistic jewellery range is one.
All of Clare's jewellery and hair accessory collections are handmade in small-batch quantities using recycled silver and are designed to be simplistic and timeless.
Clare cares about the environment and our planet. The recycled silver which she uses is produced from 100% recycled scrap, unwanted jewellery items, as well as discarded industrial products, including old medical equipment and electronics. By reusing materials that already exist and would otherwise be discarded, Clare supports her belief of making sustainable and affordable design. We caught up with Clare to find out more about her jewellery and life as an independent maker...
How would you describe your style in 3 words?
Handmade | Minimalist | Recycled
When and how did you first start making jewellery?
I first started making jewellery whilst studying my degree in contemporary applied arts. I've not always known that I wanted to be a jeweller see myself more of a designer maker than a jewellery.
During my first year I worked with a range of materials including metal, ceramics , glass and wood. It was then at the end of my 1st year that I went on to specialise in mixed media jewellery design. I really enjoyed learning and experimenting with the wearable object side of jewellery design.
One of my favourite projects at university was tiled transition where I developed a jewellery collection using wooden chairs I found in a skip.
The collections during my degree were a lot more sculptural compared to my current collections. Although the collections have evolved, my focus and passion for designing and making with materials that have either been recycled or items that would otherwise be discarded are still at the forefront of my work. All the silver I use within my designs is made using 100% recycled scrap, unwanted jewellery items, as well as discarded industrial products, including old medical equipment and electronics.
What inspires you and what are your favourite pieces?
I find this question tough to answer as there is so much that inspires what I make. With some designs, it can be purely just playing with the material and how it can be shaped or worked. This may be alongside finding inspiration from my surroundings in both the urban and natural landscapes, looking at structures and forms within both of these environments.
My favourite pieces to make change weekly I think if I had to choose I would say my Minimal D ring and D bangle. These were the first items I designed and made as part of my signature everyday collection and the one that I have continued to develop and adapt as part of my new Nerth (Strength) collection.
What’s the biggest challenge you face and what brings you joy?
One of my biggest challenges is knowing when to stop and give myself a break! I'm very grateful to be doing a job I love and finding the balance between work and rest can be a challenge at times.
Here are our top 5 favourite pieces from Clare Elizabeth Kilgour's collection which you can find online in our shop...
1. Clare Elizabeth Kilgour Oval Disc Drop Earrings
Inspired by the delicate seed pods of Lunaria annua Honesty flower, these light weight drop earrings add a pop of shine to any outfit, day or night. The brass oval disc hangs from a sterling silver hoop style earring. Please note that these earrings come on a card to reduce packaging waste and are not boxed. Click here to read more or to purchase this item.
2. Clare Elizabeth Kilgour Brass Hair Pin
This minimal brass Hair Pin with Hoop is available in three sizes. Small is recommended for finer hair and large for thicker hair. Each hoop comes with its own pin and the pin can always be worn on its own. Click here to read more or to purchase this item.
3. Clare Elizabeth Kilgour Large Minimal Earrings
These Large minimal brass hoop earrings are modern and elegant and come with sterling silver posts and butterfly backs. Please note that these earrings come on a card to reduce packaging waste and are not boxed. Click here to read more or to purchase this item.
4. Clare Elizabeth Kilgour Oval Solid D Stud Earrings
These oval solid D stud earrings are both modern and sophisticated. You can choose from either recycled sterling silver or brass (the brass come with sterling silver posts and butterfly backs). Please note that these earrings come on a card to reduce packaging waste and are not boxed.
5. Clare Elizabeth Kilgour Mini Oval Stud Earrings
These mini brass oval stud earrings are simple and timeless and come with sterling silver posts and butterfly backs). Please note that these earrings come on a card to reduce packaging waste and are not boxed.
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