Blackbird launches silver Cape flower designs

A new jewellery range inspired by the flowers of the Western Cape was launched by Blackbird at the Design Indaba

Jewellery designer Chloe Essery of Blackbird has raised the bar for Cape Town’s jewellery design industry with her new range.

Launched at Design Indaba, 2010, the range of pendants, rings and earrings are influenced by the Cape fynbos - those woody flowers that make up the smallest but richest floral kingdom in the world.

Pair a hibiscus oval pendant, a classic ship shield or a flower embossed heart with a silver and resin heart to make an interesting and bespoke combination that speaks of a love for the flowers of the Cape.

The Blackbird spreads her wings

The designer received her fine art degree from Michalis Art school before studying jewellery design in London, in 2003. Returning to South Africa in 2004, she designed for the renowned jewellery brand, Miglio. In 2005, Blackbird took flight and she’s never looked back.

While travelling Essery collected old coins which are still proving to be a design influence. Signature coin motifs can still be seen in the new range. The designer uses techniques such as photo etching and embossed etched patterns on silver, to create beautiful antique detail.

The solid, weighty pieces are hand finished in sterling silver and are enhanced with elements of glass enamel, resin, African schweswe fabrics and semi-precious stones.

Blackbird jewellery is available at various locations in Cape Town, including the Cape Quarter, the Biscuit Mill and Long Street.

For more shopping ideas and to find out more about precious stones, read our article on Jewel Africa.