Today’s featured jewelry collector is Ish of Ishy Antiques. He is a longtime friend and I’ve watched him grow his business from the very beginning. I have a really special ring from him that features a wonky old cut diamond set in a celestial star motif, with navy blue enameling all around it. It is a piece I will treasure forever! Ishy is located in London and sells such a gorgeous selection of antique & vintage jewelry – he really has such a great eye and distinctive taste. He also has the best hair in the business. Let’s hear about his personal jewelry collection:
“I am fond of collecting antique medallions and charms with interesting and unusual imagery on them. There can be so much detail packed into a small place. It’s always fun to find a design that you’ve never seen before or see a makers mark/ signature and discover works by the same artist – often the original artists have huge bodies of work and I see it as a privilege to be the caretaker of something that they created.”
“I’m lucky to be based in London so there’s quite a lot of places that I love to go antiquing. My favorite places are probably Portobello Road and Hatton Garden – just because I know a lot of dealers there and they always have something for me, and there’s always new people to meet and look around, there’s always something cool that turns up. Also online, I love Jewellery Hannah – everything is handmade, ethically-made, and unique with attention to detail.”
“I love the stories that come along with jewelry – where they come from, who made it, where it was made, what it’s made from. I love how beautiful jewelry is, how portable it is — you can have like 50 different rings, while other antiques are oftentimes harder to store. I enjoy the personal connection that comes with jewelry. I remember where all my pieces come from, who I bought them from and especially when they’re given as gifts, it is such a special thing.”
“I found my amethyst cabochon ring as a smashed up and flattened mount that was going to be scrapped by the seller. I thought it looked ancient and couldn’t stop staring at the richly coloured 21ct gold. I bought the amethyst cabochon from a gem dealer in Hatton Garden and had Gaetano Chiavetta restore the mount and set the stone. It’s a stunning piece and I’m so glad I managed to save it from being melted.”
“My ruby and diamond ring was a birthday gift last year and it’s something which I wear everyday. It’s crafted from 18ct white gold and is quite a unique design. Every time I post it I get asked the price! I love that it has my birthstone (Ruby) incorporated into the design.”
