Joya, a jewellery brand inspired by all-things African, is expanding its reach with an online retail platform. Designed by Victoria Fenner, each collection is on trend and wearable. We catch up with Vicky to talk trends, textures and inspirations.
What inspired this current collection?
My summer travel to Europe... The bright colours (neons) and prints that I encountered were memorable, and I loved how items were worn; stacked handmade bracelets and layers of necklaces. I combined these with our signature African materials and design techniques.
Do you have favourite textures and stones that feature regularly in the collections?
We love stones with more common colours like rainbow jade and royal jasper. I use a lot of turquoise (my favourite) because it’s versatile, and compliments many colours. I try to use as many textures as possible, like smooth polished stones, rough crystals, natural hemp cord, shiny nylon and real skins to emphasise the brand’s origin.
How many collections are launched annually?
We present four quarterly updates, inspired by current trends, and add new pieces regularly.
What can we look forward to this spring?
We continue to focus on the use of colour and texture. The collection is set to include anklets, headbands and new necklaces. We’re also working on a range of handbags just in time for spring.
What makes for a great jewellery collection?
One must keep producing a collection that’s on-trend – with your brand’s signature look and feel.
What inspired the launch of Joya?
I saw a gap in the market for handcrafted jewellery using quality materials. Joya celebrates African roots in a modern way, and its growth is certainly proof that there is a need for such pieces.
