Belgian jeweller Laurence Vandenborre started her craft at the age of 14, selling her own handmade jewellery set with Swarovski pearls. It was a simple start, but it was a gateway to her dream of one day creating her own collection.

After graduating with a master’s degree in Strategic Intelligence and following it up with a degree in Gemmology, Vandenborre began to chase that dream. In June 2019, it came true. The talented twenty-something launched her first collection with a strong vision: to design original jewellery that can be worn every day by women from all walks of life; jewellery that reflects their personal style and makes them feel confident.

We grabbed five minutes with this exciting contemporary jeweller to find out what makes Laurence Vandenborre tick.

Tell us a little bit about your brand.

I design refined, dynamic jewels using different colours, shapes and textures that speak to a wide audience. Due to my profound fascination with diamonds, sapphires, tourmalines and opals, I want to put these gems in the limelight and make them accessible to everyone. I aim to offer stylish, high-quality jewels suited to different budgets.

What inspires your designs?

My collections are bursting with emotions, memories, passion and love. I love the idea of every woman being able to buy her own jewellery and that pieces will be passed down from generation to generation.

What made you want to become a jeweller?

After my degree in gemmology, I started to work in a major diamond grading lab in Antwerp. I have been running the marketing department there for four years, and this has been a very enriching journey. Therefore, I have been in everyday contact with diamonds and colored stones, which increased considerably my passion for it. I always wanted to be independent and develop my own jewellery brand, and at some point, you have to go for it, whatever the obstacles you may encounter.

How your jewels are made?

All the jewels of the collection are handmade in a workshop in Italy, and are made from 18ct gold. The tailor-made jewels are handmade in our atelier in Antwerp. Furthermore, the gems that I use are selected after being ethically analysed. Jewellery set with diamonds include — upon request — a grading report issued by a renowned diamond lab.

Tell us about your latest collection.

My collection consists of four categories: Imperfect Shape, Attempt of a Curve, In an 80s Heart, and Sketchy Architecture. Despite their different styles, these capsule collections have one thing in common: their timeless, stylish and original aura. 

Do you have any exciting projects in the pipeline this year?

In addition to The Jewellery Cut Live event, I plan to work with shops and pop-up stores in Belgium and abroad, mainly in London and Paris. As I do not have my own physical shop, it is very important that customers see and try on my jewels in points of sale. By organising small events and shopping nights, as I did in 2019, it will also be a great opportunity to meet them. I am very excited about 2020.

What can people expect to see from Laurence Vandenborre at The Jewellery Cut Live?

People will discover a selection of jewels from the four different new capsules. They will feel their different textures, shapes, and we will have the opportunity to discuss all the diamonds and gems that are set in the jewels. I will introduce my universe through my unique displays and I will gladly discuss with them any idea they may have to design bespoke jewels together.

Meet Laurence Vandenborre and her jewels at The Jewellery Cut Live on February 16^th & 17^th, 2020, at The Royal Institution during London Fashion Week. Click here for tickets and or to get more information on the show head here