This week we speak to Lucy Stopes-Roe who masterfully captures the lifelike details of the flora and fauna that sparks her inspiration. Lucy is a self-taught jewellery designer, sculptor and artist from London, UK. All her nature-inspired gold and silver creations are sculpted, cast and finished by hand and we are delighted to stock a range of Lucy's work in the gallery
When did you start creating jewellery?
I cast my first piece in silver about 8 years ago!
Who inspires you the most? (No rules here, other jewellers, artists or even family & friends)
My inspiration comes partly from what I see in nature but perhaps more so from historic art, design and illustration. I studied History of Art as an undergraduate degree, but I’ve had no formal training as a jeweller, so I think I’ve always approached my jewellery design from an angle of making my art wearable, and figuring out how to do that along the way! I have a real soft spot for the Romantic Period, and the Pre-Raphaelites. I love late 19th and early 20th century illustration as well and I think my work has a quite an illustrative quality - I always I want to create magic and tell stories with my pieces. That being said, although my rings usually do have figurative details, one of the things I love about designing rings is that I can be a little more abstract!
How do you work?
I’m constantly looking — at art, at jewellery, at textures, shapes and details. Inspiration tends to build quietly in the background until an idea feels fully formed in my head. From there, I’ll either sketch it out to clarify the design, or sometimes I’ll go straight into clay while the idea still feels fresh and instinctive. All my designs are sculpted by hand in polymer clay, before being cast in precious metal. For pieces that are structurally a bit complicated I might create a wire armature first to build on to. Sculpting a new design usually takes a few days - could be anything from 5 and 20 hours work!
Sounds of the Studio - what are you listening to?
Right now, the main soundtrack to my studio is my six-month-old baby boy happily babbling away to himself — which is, honestly, my favourite sound in the world. Alongside that, you’ll usually hear Classic FM playing in the background. There’s something about classical music that helps me settle into a steady rhythm — it brings a sense of calm focus, which is exactly what I need when I’m working with tiny details.
I’m a big fan of audiobooks too, but at the moment my attention is somewhat… divided. Working with a baby in the studio can feel a bit like juggling monkeys some days 😵💫 — so instrumental music tends to win. I think Rupert likes it too!
What’s next for your brand?
More engagement rings — and more precious stones. I just really, really love the sparkly things.
There’s something incredibly special about working on engagement pieces. Being trusted with such a meaningful commission never feels ordinary, and I’m excited to keep developing this side of my work — designing rings that feel personal, thoughtful, and made to last a lifetime.
I’m also looking forward to working with more beautiful, vibrant gemstones. The colours, the light, the individuality of each stone — they never get old for me.
Which is your favourite piece?
Probably my most sentimental piece, and the one I am most fond of is the robin heart design, which I made to wear for my wedding.
Finally, for fun, what would be your dream piece to make or person to make for?
It would be a mesmerising collar style necklace, with tiny filigree details, and each section would be a unique miniature scene, representing a Midsummer Nights Dream, with whole lot of opals, diamonds, mixed sapphires and moonstones. I’m not sure who would wear it, but it would probably reside in the V&A.
The exclusive Stargazer Ring is now sold but please do contact us if you would like to incorporate some of the elements to create something bespoke with Lucy.
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.
