- What is the story behind your company?
I started out as a textiles designer, but fell in love with jewellery once I realised I could create a piece from start to finish in one session at the bench. To learn more I began making chains for a renowned jeweller called Tony Thompson and he trained me in jewellery making.
I then began my own brand on a shared bench in Hatton Garden and it has grown organically since. I want to be close to and learn from my customers, which is why I’ve focused on in-person experiences more than online and wholesale.
- How do you keep up with the industry changes?
We try not to jump on top of too many trends and instead focus on who we are as a brand. I do find influences in fashion and trends, but don’t let our designs be dictated by them. I’m always interested in changes in technology, materials and sourcing so keep up to date with those industry changes.
- How do you get inspired for new jewellery designs?
I am inspired by the everyday woman and her lifestyle when I create new designs. I design with my customers in mind – creating pieces they can collect, wear everyday and layer. Women and their busy, multi-tasking lives inspire me.
- What does your brand offer that others don’t?
We have a real focus on designing wearable luxury pieces. Our customers want jewellery that blends seamlessly into her life and makes her feel put together and special without too much fuss. We also mix a lot of sterling silver and gold into our pieces creating our recognisable mixed metal look.
From a retail perspective I strongly believe in making jewellery shops more welcoming and interactive spaces. We’ve designed our shops with this in mind allowing customers to touch and feel pieces and see our jewellers at work.
- What are some of the biggest names that have wore your designs?
Our pieces have been worn by some amazing women including Alexa Chung, Adele, Rita Ora and Jesse Glynn.
- What is your biggest accomplishment so far?
Having my first baby whilst opening my first shop last year felt like a pretty big accomplishment. I’ve named my newest collection ‘Thea’ after my baby girl too.
- What is next for Maya Magal?
We are in the process of opening our third store in the Coal Drop Yard development in King’s Cross. There are lots of collaborations and new designs in the pipeline too but that’s definitely taking up a lot of my focus at the moment.
