By Leisa Barnett
When my fiancé (aside: I still can't say that with a straight face) proposed to me, he did it with most beautiful vintage diamond ring he could've chosen. It was by the brilliant Annina Vogel.
You've probably heart of Annina, but if you haven't, I bet you're familiar with her work. When Rosie Huntington-Whiteley graced the cover of ELLE last year, she did so in Annina Vogel jewels. When Kate Moss was papped hitting London town for her 40th birthday last month, that gobstopper of a necklace their flashes were bouncing off? An Annina Vogel.
So, getting in touch with Annina to a) thank her for being such talent, and b) ask a few quick-fire questions seemed like a no-brainer.
And look - she's a dog person too! This just gets better and better...
Where does your love of jewellery come from?
My mum was an antique jewellery dealer, so I grew up surrounded by inspiration.
How do you go about building a collection?
I have signature items in the collection, such as arrows and horse shoes, that I am always on the hunt for. Ultimately, I tend to buy what I would personally want to wear. It is mostly around the themes of love and luck. I am a hopeless romantic...
What is it about Victorian jewellery that holds such a special appeal for you?
I love that Victorian jewellery is so symbolic, and that most of the pieces have a message behind them from one loved one to another.
What's the most special piece of jewellery that you own personally?
A diamond and sapphire heart pendant that my mum bought me for my 25th birthday.
What advice would you give brides looking to accessorise on their wedding day?
Go for timeless pieces that you will be able to wear everyday for the next 50 years.
anninavogel.co.uk
Leisa Barnett is News & Social Media at ELLE. She is getting married in 2014.
