Talking with talented women rich with stories of travel, love and creative pursuits always, without fail, inspires us to the point of wanting to follow in their exact footsteps. The story behind Cleopatra’s Bling was no exception. From the bazaars of Turkey, to Naples, to Paris, we caught up with the wonderful Olivia Cummings who takes us through her journey of creating a jewellery collection that no words can quite do justice (you’ll see).
TELL US ABOUT CLEOPATRA’S BLING. HOW DID IT COME ABOUT?
After 6 years in Paris, I needed a more creative existence so I moved to Istanbul and learnt the art of jewellery with the artisans of the Grand Bazaar. The rest is history.
PHOTOS: Annabelle Foucher
TAKE US THROUGH YOUR JOURNEY FROM MELBOURNE TO PARIS TO TURKEY. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE EACH MOVE?
I moved to Paris at the age of 18 to follow love and to learn French. I ended up staying there for 6 years before moving to Istanbul. Each step was natural and driven by passion and love. Turkey was by far the most challenging but the most rewarding in terms of what was birthed of it: My jewellery project.
WHAT’S THE STORY BEHIND THE BRAND’S NAME?
It was tongue in cheek at first: simply playing on the concept of the East meeting the West, since it all started in Turkey and Istanbul is famous for being a bridge between the East and the West.
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- Albareum Ring
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- Khepri Radiance Earrings
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- Shining Eyes Gorgoneion Ring
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- Rainbow Gorgoneion Radiance Pendant
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- Concha de Vieira Pendant with Diamonds
HOW DO YOU TAKE YOUR COFFEE?
Depends where I am: In Naples – espresso with no sugar, in the morning at home – I have it with coconut oil. In Australia – I have a long black with a side of hot milk.
PHOTOS: Annabelle Foucher
TALK US THROUGH THE PROCESS OF CREATING A NEW CB PIECE…
The inspiration is just what I take in on a daily level: Mythology I read, astrology, history, poetry. I then mould my ideas from wax and cast into metal.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?
There is no typical day. But I rise early and so my morning self-care routine and then do whatever needs to be done: Designing, moulding or more admin things. I need exercise to keep sane and I like to go on long walks. I always cook myself a warm lunch in winter and a salad and protein in summer.
PHOTO: Annabelle Foucher
FAVOURITE CLEO PIECE?
Currently all the new enamel pieces – stay tuned.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU – BUSINESS OR PERSONAL – HEADING INTO SUMMER?
Sicily all summer with a book and pasta. I am hanging out for quiet time.
GO TO: cleopatrasbling.com
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Inspiration/Image Credits: cleopatrasbling.com, Annabelle Foucher
