The Laings Journal
Laings of Glasgow are well renowned for housing a portfolio of exclusive, luxury brands, and are very fortunate to have direct contact with the source of some of these remarkable collections. When we recently approached Multi-Award Winning Jewellery Designer Andrew Geoghegan he very kindly agreed to an interview with us to discuss his role in the jewellery world, reveal his inspirations and share some personal insights into the life of an exceptional designer.
Where are you originally from? Born in Birmingham but dragged away at the age of 2 before I had chance to happen across Hockley! I have mixed ethnicity with a Maltese mother and English father. So there is my passionate Mediterranean side and my reserved ‘English’ side!
How did you get started? Always loved art, inventing and making things as a young lad. When I was allowed near flames and hammers, I found myself working metal at school using blacksmithing techniques. I had an obvious fascination for metal and this developed into a fascination for jewellery and stone setting. To me it seemed like micro engineering and the effects of this ‘engineering’ had the potential to be practically perfect at some level. Perfectionism is one of the facets of my calling.
What was it that drew you into the area of Bridal jewellery? I love the challenge of creating an engagement ring which has a unique form or approach – and that has to be wearable and practical – and sellable. It is harder to do and really takes some contemplation and resolution. For the piece to also be beautiful and innovative is a real test. Bridal is also a guaranteed market so there was no doubt a business angle with this decision.
Your designs are very unique, what are your Inspirations? My character has probably the largest effect of my designs. I would add my experiences also. When I left university I was an energetic twenty-something who spent most of his time in the gym. I was resistant to change and I projected a façade of confidence however under the surface this was not the case. At this time my designs were very angular and hard edged. I believe that these designs were a reflection of who I was. Whilst I remain uncompromising in my pursuit of perfection you notice that many of my recent designs have a much softer approach – less about angles and more about curves. Once again I would say this is reflecting a softer me,more open to change and less limited.
I am a strong believer that the essence of true design or art is more about an expression of beauty. This expression can be accompanied or wrapped with what the artist is or has gone through. But at its core is an inexplicable expression of something that is beyond words.
I could also answer this question by saying Love is my inspiration. Love of my craft. And love that the pieces symbolise. However I believe that this love has deeper implications than most of us realise.
What are your favourite materials –metals/stones to work with? Platinum and 18ct golds are my metals of choice mainly because of their purity, workability and colours. Stone wise there is a vast choice and I find delight in working with many a different stone. Of late I enjoy working with intensely coloured gem stones and creating stunning contrasts and discord between them. Diamonds are naturally a firm favourite due to their incredible optical qualities, vast availability and hardness.
Have you ever designed for anyone famous? Not yet. My black book of celebrities is non-existent so if you know of any that need an AG piece please let me know.
What is your greatest achievement? Believe it or not it is a ring as opposed to an accolade. And it is the Reveal ring, I feel this was as close to perfection as I ever thought I would get – it now sets the standard for all my other pieces. A perfect balance of designer and commerciality and understandably the best seller – however the Cannele is looking like it will take over from the Reveal.
And finally we have seen and heard many stories on Facebook about your infamous dog Wilbur, we wanted to know if he behaving himself now after his little “runaway adventures”? Since going AWOL in the park on a number of occasions and causing full-scale searches through Facebook Wilbur is pretty much behaving himself after his recent “adventures”.
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us Andrew, we are delighted that your brand is continuing to thrive and always look forward to seeing what new and unique designs you have to offer.
We hope everyone has enjoyed reading this blog, please feel free to like and share it if you found it interesting and if you have any questions about the Andrew Geoghegan collection at Laings of Glasgow please contact us at [email protected] / https://www.facebook.com/LaingsGlasgow
Many thanks – Laings of Glasgow