Look Book

J e n n i f e r d aw e s d e s i g n e r pro f il e "Lazer's philosophy is very similar to mine," says Dawes. "Perfect is not what it's about for me." In an industry that has been almost exclusively geared toward flawless perfection, Dawes is instead known for her organic shapes and rustic yet refined metalwork. And now, through her partnership with Jaffe, Dawes has access to Lazer's archive of uniquely cut stones, nearly all of which come from a socially-responsible mine in Johannesburg, South Africa. Theirs is an ideal partnership, according to Jamie Jaffe. "Rough diamonds speak to Lazer. Lazer's exquisite diamonds speak to Jennifer, giving her the inspiration to create fantastic pieces of sustainable jewelry. It is that silent communication between artists that makes this collaboration so special." As alternative as ethically-sourced and imperfect diamonds might sound, these more traditionally-cut stones bring new elements of classicism to her more avant-garde sensibilities. "Even though the diamonds I'm using are bending tradition, the stones are actually more traditional than I am usually known for," says Dawes. Her latest bridal designs are stunningly crafted using cushion cuts, marquise and classic stones in the 1-2 carat range. "This is my way to talk to more mainstream customers, to extend my brand and philosophy into new markets." A passionate metalsmith, Dawes began as a sculptor and took her first metalsmithing class at Interlochen. "Working with metal like that, it was a transcendent experience," says Dawes. She was hooked. While she immediately began working on jewelry, she continued to explore other ways of working with metal, including at one point, being a welder on a construction crew. Eventually, jewelry became her paramount art form, but the process of experimentation served her well and brought finesse to her technique. Today, this multi-faceted background has paved the way for classic cuts to meet her artistic vision in a stunning new bridal collection. Her metal sources are equally sustainable. Whether using an ethically-sourced mine in Peru or materials purchased through the world's largest recycling firm, Umicore, Dawes sticks to her mission of sustainability. "My clients are amazing people doing great work in the world," says Dawes. "I strive to meet them there with my jewelry design." www.dawes-design.com "My clients are amazing people doing great work in the world," says Dawes. "I strive to meet them there with my jewelry design." 42 W W W.theWeddingringbook.CoM

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