1 November 2024
Episode 45
53 minutes
This episode is something of an ode to jewels, goldsmithing and design – but also the human urge to collect. We’ll visit the imposing and eccentric Geneva home that inspires Maison Belmont; chat to the founder of jewellery brand Annoushka about the symbolism and personal history that infuses her work; and delve into the history of Persian jewellers, Le Vian. Plus: our audio essay reflects on the power of planting trees as a gesture of remembrance and hope.
1 November 2024
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DownloadChapter 1
9 minutes
Photo: Conny Mirbach
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We’re at the Geneva home of gemologist Sarah Mugnier and it’s here that she founded jewellery brand Maison Belmont in 2022. The location is important: her colourful townhouse acts as both a home and a showroom. Konfekt’s markets editor for luxury, Brenda Tuohy, stopped by Maison Belmont to find out more about the brand.
9 minutes
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Chapter 2
18 minutes
Photo: Getty Images
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One of the fascinating things about jewellery is the personal relationship we have with the pieces. Enter Annoushka, the eponymous fine-jewellery brand by Annoushka Ducas. Her designs are stylish yet playful and colourful, bringing to life pieces that will be worn and cherished forever.
18 minutes
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Chapter 3
9 minutes
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With roots in Persia, Le Vian is a family company first, and its love for rare gems dates back to its founding in the 15th century. Since then, the family’s passion has only continued to grow and is currently headed up by CEO Eddie LeVian, who still considers himself “the guardian of the jewels.” Konfekt’s Monica Lillis sat down with Eddie to learn more about the brand’s history and its firm mission to provide the world with the most beautiful precious stones.
9 minutes
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Chapter 4
5 minutes
Photo: Alamy
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The wild brown olive tree is revered across Kenya as a source of food, shade, traditional remedies and timber. Planting one is an act of hope – and a fitting act of remembrance for someone much missed, as writer Wanjeri Gakuru explains in this month’s final thought.
5 minutes
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