Featuring colorful gemstones and fancy shapes, the whimsical Laurence Bruyninckx Collection let you combine different elements to create the ring of your dreams. Engagement 101 asked Laurence a few questions about her beautiful creations.
When and how did you start designing bridal jewelry?
I come from the fashion world. I studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Belgium. Upon graduation, I started my career at a handbag company and spent several years at that firm, learning how to design accessories in concert with fashion. I entered many design competitions. But it was on a whim that I entered a fine jewelry contest. I was selected as one of the finalists and never looked back. I always loved working on details even in my fashion days at school, so jewelry was actually the perfect fit for me.
A large diamond firm then became interested in my award-winning concept for interchangeable jewelry and offered me a job. This has led to a wonderful new life in the fine jewelry world where I have learned so much about the beauty of diamonds and colored gems and I have been able to take my vision to new heights. The Laurence Bruyninckx Collection is the melding of all my training and let’s me create lasting, fashionable wearable art.
What are your main sources of inspiration?
I find inspiration in classic diamond designs because they challenge me to rethink the norm. I am inspired by fashion, of course, and in the concept of mix-and-match. I love having flexibility in what I wear and being able to wear three rings six different ways brings me joy. I spent my childhood living and traveling throughout Africa, Europe, India and the United States – this instilled my love of art and design and remains a big influence in my designs.
How does the couple’s input in the design of their engagement ring influence your work and projects?
The great thing about my line is that every couple has the chance to customize their ring with their choice of center, guards and bands. There are literally thousands of combinations and that gives every bride the chance to have her own unique ring set. I am often inspired by the way brides and grooms approach choosing their own set – I definitely find inspiration in their questions and in the way they ultimately choose what they choose. New ring styles will be coming based on this inspiration. I love being a part of their process and that they wind up with something they have created together and can even add to over time to commemorate the next big steps in their life together – anniversaries, babies and other major milestones.
Do you have any favorite pieces in your collection? Why?
I got married this year and my husband chose my Venus ring (above) because it was my first design. This design has proven to be very popular, too. I think as a designer my favorite ring will always be the newest one that I’m about to start working on. I love a great design challenge!
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