Elegant and stylish jewellery for every occasion
Whether timelessly elegant and sophisticated, clean-lined and contemporary, or redolent of treasures unearthed from ancient tombs, Seraglio Designs jewellery collections are all the creation of Australian archaeologist and avid furniture restorer Dr. Mandy Mottram.
Seraglio Designs jewellery is handcrafted in Canberra, the Australian national capital, from an extensive and eclectic range of fine quality materials, including semi-precious and precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, ancient excavated glass from Afghanistan, antique African trade beads, and precious metal beads from Thailand and Bali.
With a background in Middle Eastern Archaeology, as well as long-standing interests in traditional crafts and craftsmanship, ethnic jewellery and furniture design, my jewellery is inspired equally by ancient cultures, the souqs and bazaars of the Middle East, and by mid-Twentieth century design.
The materials for my designs are sourced from around the world – from Australia, Africa, India, the Middle East, China, Afghanistan, Thailand, Bali, the United States – wherever there are beautiful beads to be had. A family pastime of gemstone fossicking and subsequent geology studies has also given me an interest in rare and unusual stones, so that while I am attracted to the strong geometric form and uniformity of machine-cut stone beads, which can show the inherent beauty of a stone, I love the surprise element and natural feel of free-form and rough-cut materials.
With my pieces I want people to feel as though they are wearing something precious, but which is still very much affordable.
