What drew you to jewellery? Was there a moment when you realised that jewellery was your true form of expression?
I’ve been fascinated by jewellery since childhood – I was like a little magpie. Professionally, I only decided to launch my own brand when I began to feel frustrated by the current state of Czech fashion jewellery and bijou. It seemed like such a shame to let this national treasure fade away, instead of reviving it.
In your work, you emphasise respect for tradition while also pushing the boundaries of Jablonec bijou – what does that balance mean to you personally?
Tradition is important to me, but I don’t want to blindly copy it. When I look at old designs, I’m fascinated by how every designer had their own distinctive style – even if it was “just” a flower, you’ll find thousands of variations and interpretations. That development and craftsmanship are something we can really build on. And often, when you think you’ve discovered something new, you realise it’s already been done before. So it’s not always about inventing something completely new – sometimes it’s just about presenting it in your own way, and perhaps reflecting the times we live in.
Do you feel that Czech jewellery has its own visual language or poetics that distinguish it from international trends?
It definitely used to, more so than today. Each country had its own character when it came to jewellery – Greece or Portugal, for example, have very distinctive styles. Czech jewellery has always been very delicate and sensitive to detail, sometimes maybe a bit too minimalist or practical. But thanks to globalisation, individualism, and the endless sources of inspiration available today, almost everyone can find their own unique approach.
Gold and glitter can be beautiful, but often deceptive. Do you see a line in jewellery between what is visually beautiful and what has real substance or depth?
Jewellery is, at its core, a beautiful object – an artefact. But it often only gains real depth when someone places it in a certain context or wears it with intent. I love when people know how to play with jewellery, to try things out and experiment. And even if a piece is “just” beautiful, without a deeper meaning, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. Aesthetics alone have value too. And simply feeling good because of it is just as important.
What do you enjoy most about the process of creation – is it the idea, working with the material or the moment someone starts wearing the piece?
Every phase has something special. I love the moment when an idea hits you and it’s strong – but sometimes it stalls because it lacks concept or deeper meaning. Then I have to put it aside and come back to it later. I used to love the moment when the jewellery came back from plating – all shiny and polished, like “brand-new babies.” But now I know that joy is short-lived – it’s quickly followed by a lot more work. Of course, it’s an absolutely fantastic feeling when someone falls in love with your work at first sight and you can share that excitement with them.
