For the first installment of 'Meet the Maker' we are excited to interview Alma Sophia. A designer renowned for her sculptural designs, minimalist aesthetic and meticulous craftswomanship.
Alma often works with square tubes of precious metals, which has become her signature look. The combination of geometric lines and organic sculptural beauty is often further embellished with diamonds or semi precious stones which adds layers of colour and interest that works in harmony with her designs.
When did your jewellery making journey begin?
I have always wanted to be a jeweller! My jewellery journey began in Norway, where I grew up constantly hunting for little “treasures” in nature, flea markets and my grandmother’s jewellery box, long before I formally trained as a goldsmith. Those early obsessions with found objects and precious keepsakes eventually led me to Plus Skolen in Fredrikstad, where I earned my journeyman’s certificate in goldsmithing.
Who inspires you the most?
I am inspired by sculptural shapes, from architecture to small details in the landscape, and by the quiet minimalism of Scandinavian design. My grandmother and her jewellery collection also play a big part in my inspiration, discovering her pieces as a child is what made me fall in love with the idea of jewellery that carry stories and memories.
Is there a favourite project or assignment from your course that inspired you or proved pivotal to your final collection?
My time at the University for the Creative Arts in Rochester was pivotal; it was there that I began experimenting with square tube and repeated forms, which has since become a signature of my work. My time there laid the foundation for my square collection and taught me how rhythm, repetition and negative space can come together to form sculptural jewellery that still feels light and wearable.
How do you work – please tell us a little bit about your creative process.
Sculptural form is at the heart of my process: I start by exploring simple geometric shapes, often square tubes, and then repeat, rotate and combine them until they grow into new three-dimensional structures. Every piece is made by hand in my Bloomsbury studio, and because of this hands-on approach the architectural shapes gain a subtle organic quality, so no two forms—or cluster rings—are ever exactly the same.
Sounds of the Studio – what are you listening to?
Studio time is a great time to listen to podcasts, Today in Focus keeps me up to date on the news, Ways to change to world and Desert Island Discs are always good, and A Thousand Facets for the jewellery chats. I also love music, currently I’ve been listening to Billie Marten, Sam Fender, Loaded Honey and Dina Ogon.
What’s next for you and your brand?
I am continuing to develop my sculptural collections from my Cockpit studio in Bloomsbury, with a focus on the one-of-a-kind pieces. Bespoke commissions are also important to me, collaborating closely with clients to remodel heirlooms or design engagement and commitment rings.
Which is your favourite piece either historically or from your current collection?
At the moment, my favourite piece is the Montana Rose one-of-a-kind cluster ring, made in 18ct yellow gold with a cushion-cut Montana sapphire, pink tourmaline baguettes and rose-cut diamonds. I love how it feels both structured and organic. The combination of stones, both in terms of colour and shape really work well in this design and I had so much fun making it too!
The Montana Rose one-of-a-kind cluster ring, made in 18ct yellow gold with a cushion-cut Montana sapphire, pink tourmaline baguettes
Finally, for fun, what would be your absolute dream piece to make or person to create for?
My dream piece would be a cluster necklace encircling the entire neck – a more elaborate, all‑around version of the Rosalie necklace. I think it would look so nice and I imagine creating it in two variations, a mixed diamonds necklace and one in hues of blue and green sapphires. The Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve just got nominated for an Oscar, so while we are dreaming I would love to create her Oscars Jewellery look.
The Rosalie necklace. By Alma Sophia
Alma's Princess Cut Sapphire cluster ring is featuring in our 'One of a Kind' Ring exhibition. live online and instore if you'd like to pop by and try these on.
This collection celebrates artistry and craftsmanship. Every designer was asked to create a piece that is authentic to their own distinctive aesthetic and creative voice. From vibrant rainbow clusters to intricate details inspired by the coast, there is something to captivate every taste. Whether you are a collector or a jewellery enthusiast, we invite you to explore exceptional pieces by some of today’s leading independent designers.
