March is a month celebrating women with International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day coming up. We are delighted to speak to Kiki McDonough, a fifth-generation jeweller about her business, inspirations, and upcoming launches.
Tell us about Kiki McDonough and how it first started?
I established my business Kiki McDonough in 1985, it was born from my passion for showcasing coloured gemstones in innovative, contemporary designs and continues to lead the way in British fine jewellery design. Colour, creativity and craftsmanship have long been my passion. My father and grandfather were both jewellers by trade, igniting my ambition to share the joy jewellery can bring, and show customers how a little colour can elevate the everyday. A little colour always lifts the mood, I greatly enjoy hearing my customers say how happy they feel wearing my pieces, no matter what the occasion.
What makes Kiki stand out from other jewellers?
I create jewellery to be worn and enjoyed by every woman, every day. I’m not bound to trend-led, or fast disposable pieces and seek to create timeless, elegant collections that are worn, and loved by generations of the same family.
What inspires you the most?
Ballet is a big inspiration for my brand. Some of my first collections were inspired by the shades of the tutus from Sleeping Beauty. Ballet has always played a huge part in my life, and I’m incredibly inspired by it. Some of my most popular pieces are interwoven with details influenced by the graceful movements and incredible costumes.
Image by Kiki McDonough and Ettinger
What are your current go-to pieces of jewellery?
I love vibrant gemstones and 18ct gold, my new Jazz collection of rings celebrates interesting colour combinations and striking, adventurous shapes and launches in May.
It’s so difficult to choose, as I’ve been in business for more than 38 years. I always pick out one piece from each collection every year that I really love. At the moment, I’m wearing our beautiful Bubbles earrings and a vibrant ring from our new Jazz collection.
Image by Kiki McDonough and Ettinger
What are your key tips and advice on investing in jewellery?
Invest in colour! Every piece is designed to light up the face, neckline or hands, enhancing skin tone and making the wearer feel altogether more positive. I have never met a woman who doesn’t look better when wearing a touch of colour.
Buying a Mother’s Day gift, where to start?
Our cushion cut drop earrings are a versatile and timeless gift, perfect for a much-cherished mother – the hoops go with everything, and the drops can be inter-changed, so they’re the perfect present.
Do you have any advice on caring and storing jewellery?
Never spray perfume, hairspray or use body oils on gemstones, or pearls as this can damage them. Store them in a soft pouch, or jewellery roll.
Tell us about your flagship store in Sloane Square and what customers can expect including your bespoke service.
Our customers often come to see us at our Flagship store for bespoke pieces - this could be re-modelling an engagement ring, re-designing an existing heirloom piece, or designing around a particular stone which we have sourced. I work closely with them to design pieces that fit their vision.
What’s next for Kiki? Any exciting news or collection launches coming up this year?
We’re launching our new Jazz collection in May inspired by my favourite neo-classical ballet ‘Elite Syncopations’. The collection has more than 21 playful cocktail rings in a rainbow of bold coloured stones, set in recycled yellow gold.
To finish off, we would love to know...
Favourite holiday destination
Anywhere where there is sunshine and a beach!
Best restaurant in London
Manicomio in Duke of York Square, London - the atmosphere, food and waiting staff are all wonderful.
Favourite hobby
Watching the ballet, as well as my favourite football team, Liverpool FC
Favourite book
My favourite book is Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier, which I always re-read
Shop Kiki McDonough jewellery at www.kiki.co.uk
Shop Ettinger’s luxury selection of Jewellery Accessories here