CREATING UNIQUE BRIDAL JEWELLERY

“Jewellery is also a particularly personal and sentimental gift. So isn't it wonderful for brides and grooms to know that, even if they arrive with just a vague idea in mind, here are the people who will do whatever it takes to make that idea a reality”

Jewellery by design

THE JEWELLERY A BRIDE CHOOSES FOR HER WEDDING IS SPECIAL. IT MUST LOOK BEAUTIFUL, EXPRESS HER PERSONALITY AND RISE TO THE OCCASION.

Nothing is guaranteed to add to the wow factor more than wearing your own unique and very personal jewellery for the most important day of your life. And it's easier than you would think, because we have local jewellers, with an international reputation for amazing pieces, who like nothing better than making dreams come true.

IDOrecently visited George Farrugia Jewellers to discover what a joy it can be for brides, grooms and their families to choose their own custom-made pieces. These may be presents to mark the big day, or items to wear during the celebrations – or both! After years of study and obtaining his all important hallmark, George Farrugia began his career exactly 40 years ago, in Ta' Dbiegi Craft Village. Since then this same premises has been extensively enlarged, and his two sons Samuel and Lukas have joined the firm. Both boys' interest flourished from as soon as they were old enough to watch their father at work, on Saturday

mornings. Next came the summer holiday jobs, and with their proud father's example and instructive encouragement they discovered all the ways precious materials and jewels can be used to create beautiful pieces. And because each new piece is a different challenge the novelty never wears off.

The three work very closely and have received many extremely important commissions. But all brides looking for something extra special to wear on their wedding day will certainly receive the most dedicated advice and assistance in getting everything they wish for.

Depending on the quantity, materials and the design, commissions should be ordered at least two to three months in advance. Clients may turn up with photos, sketches, even examples of period pieces to adapt, as inspiration. George, Samuel and Lukas really enjoy the process of working with them on the design and choosing the best and most suitable materials to use. They also like to create pieces with stones such as opals which are very beautiful but not generally associated with weddings.

In fact when asked what is the best part of his 40-year career George immediately replied it was seeing the bride happy at her wedding.

Jewellery is also a particularly personal and sentimental gift. So isn't it wonderful for brides and grooms to know that, even if they arrive with just a vague idea in mind, here are the people who will do whatever it takes to make that idea a reality.

Stages in the creation of the head piece Charlene Camilleri wore for her wedding, featured from page 35.