I recently discovered the work of jeweller Nak Armstrong while doing some window shopping/ internet browsing in Liberty's jewellery section. Based in Austin, Texas, Armstrong recently set up his own label after gaining recognition and a CFDA award as part of design duo Anthony Nak, which ended in 2010. Technically, what sets Armstrong's work apart, is its construction- abandoning the traditional use of a bezel, he instead suspends stones in a metal framework. This makes each piece lighter, causes it to behave differently and means that every piece is individual, almost like 'couture'.
The influence of architecture, which he studied in college, is easy to spot- the arches and domes reminiscent of buildings in an exotic, forgotten world. Combined with the dulled metal and richness of the stones, there is something old world about Armstrong's design, albeit with a sophisticated touch. Contrasting qualities are dominant, especially in the use of precious stones like sapphires, rubies and emeralds alongside semi precious stones like tourmaline and lapis lazuli. To learn more about his work, watch his stockist Barneys' interview here.
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