When you come to watch La clemenza di Tito and Tristan und Isolde this winter, be sure to visit the Opera Shop. Every season we feature a different collection of jewellery designed by Canadian artisans. The perfect place to find that Valentine's Day gift, perhaps? To give you a preview on the pieces available this winter, Michelle Hwu, our retail co-ordinator, spoke with Jon Klar, Alice Chik, Diandra Guglielmello (of Liel and Lentz) and Ayana Fishman (of TwoA) about their designs.

MH: Please tell us a bit about your background in jewellery making.

Alice Chik – As a self-taught jeweller, I have been making accessories by hand for over a decade. Upon graduating from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University with a background in graphic design, I enjoyed a career as an illustrator. Then in 1999, my curiousity in lampworking opened my eyes to the world of jewellery making. I continue to create unique pieces from my studio in Richmond Hill.

Jon Klar – I studied design and jewellery making in Southern California, and theatre and dance at the National Ballet School of Canada. For over 15 years my inspiration to make beautiful jewellery has come from my experience as a dancer, my love for modern design, and nature.

Liel and Lentz – Maggie Coblentz (the designer) studied fashion at Ryerson University in Toronto, but her first introduction to jewellery was through her grandmother who also designed jewellery. Maggie explored jewellery design further while studying abroad in India. It was here where she was exposed to a diverse range of materials and modes of production.

TwoA – TwoA was established three years ago, both in Israel and Canada. My partner is Anat Shapira working from Israel and me, Ayana Fishman, working from Toronto. My background is internal designing and architecture studies and Anat came from teaching.

MH: Can you describe the inspiration behind the jewellery you created for this winter season?

Alice Chik – For this collection, I drew inspiration from nature's wintry hues. I used primarily a grey palette coupled with earthy tones and petrified wood.

Jon Klar – My wife Roshan has hand-coloured the jewellery for over five years, she studied art at an international boarding school in India and is inspired by the vibrant colours and the beauty of nature. Roshan and I are also inspired by the women who wear our jewellery.

Liel and Lentz – The winter collection is both classic and contemporary. Large-faceted stones that play with light are used throughout the collection: smokey quartz is mixed with 14K-gold-filled elements creating a warm feeling, while icicle-like stones such as rainbow moonstone and iolite are highlighted by .925 silver. As always, natural materials inspire the collection.

TwoA – TwoA’s winter collection is characterized by a tribal style that is both restrained and unyielding with a hint of androgynous urbanity. We’re using a limited colour palette designed in simplicity with a conservative look based on the colours of dusk.

MH: What is your favourite piece of jewellery from your winter collection?

Alice Chik – My favourite piece is the multi-strand bracelet made with semi-precious stones and silver. The bracelet requires long hours and meticulous work. It has a lightness to it despite the many layers of beading. The natural colours make it a very versatile bracelet to pair with any outfit.

Jon Klar – Our favourite designs for this season are any combination of our anodized aluminium and sterling silver earrings with our anodized aluminium bracelet (see left).

Liel and Lentz – Our favourite piece from the winter collection is the bauble pendant. The silver bauble and tassels are tastefully juxtaposed against Liel and Lentz’s quintessential material, wood. The necklace is elegant, yet fun and playful.

TwoA – Our favourite items in this collection are the coloured stones and the wild ropes necklaces. 

The Opera Shop is located on the main floor of the Isadore and Rosalie Sharp City Room in the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, open before, during and (sometimes) after all performances. You can also shop for more COC items at our online Opera Shop!

Meet the jewellers at our jewellery trunk shows this winter and discover more of the unique designs and pieces from their collections. Jewellery by TwoA is featured on Saturday, February 2, and Liel and Lentz on Sunday, February 17.

Photo credits: (top) Alice Chik; (middle) TwoA; (middle) Liel and Lentz; (bottom) Jon Klar, photo by Jeff Higgins.