Claudia von Hansemann’s jewellery line combines European designs with traditional style

Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line strikes the perfect note of harmony between modern European sensibilities and traditional craftsmanship 
Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line
Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line

We can never seem to get enough of experimental statement jewellery, and Claudia von Hansemann’s line CVH Studio is all about pushing the envelope when it comes to creating fresh, globally relevant bling. The German designer spent the last 15 years in the country, closely working with artisans from rural India, observing their crafts and driving her efforts to lend a contemporary edge to homegrown techniques. “I think, my jewellery attracts modern women who travel a lot and want to dress up, but don’t want to come across as over-dressed. My lineup has a focus on wear-ability, and as it features a lot of diverse elements, it really makes for a flattering aesthetic,” Claudia tells us. Her creations are exactly what we mean when we speak of new statement jewellery — they are interestingly assembled, bear a touch of Bohemian elements, and can seamlessly fit in with any mood. 

<em>Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line </em>
Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line

Claudia’s jewellery aspires to blend together a European sartorial narrative with local artistry of Indian origin. Maximalism, for a change Claudia launched her label a decade ago, and has worked tirelessly to merge modern European design with traditional Indian craftsmanship. Her elaborate gold-plated neck colliers, featuring Swarovski pearls, braided leather and gold antique-plated embellishments are edgy, individualistic and surprisingly curated. Claudia’s creations bear a refreshing focus on the aspect of maximalism, which we usually, see in heritage Rajasthani jewellery or North Indian techniques. Her mesh-style crystal colliers or adjustable panelled neck pieces basically serve to unite Indian cultural sensibilities for an evolving international milieu. Claudia earlier worked as a design manager for celebrated labels like Vitra and Louis Vuitton. 

<em>Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line </em>
Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line

In India, she went on to work with several NGOs, and has been deeply associated with the craft sector, on behalf of the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development. Her experience with local artisan groups also led her to observe social influences on local art closely; Indian principles of sustainability also feature in a prominent manner in her approach to jewellery making. Indigenous influence Claudia divides her time between Delhi and Germany, where she also teaches at a design academy. In the past decade, however, she has been devoting a lot of her time to closely observe indigenous crafts across India, especially across Uttaranchal to Rajasthan, and in surrounding rural communities. 

<em>Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line </em>
Claudia von Hansemann’s new jewellery line

The braiding technique from Udaipur, for instance, features heavily in her work. You’ll also notice a stunning chic quality in Claudia’s statement pieces, as she uses breezy and non-cumbersome elements like acrylic, silk dori, artificial pearls, mother of pearl coins, silver-plated crystal, crochet balls, glass beads and even velvet. “Most of my pieces are easy to wear, and gives you a lot of room to mix and match. You can layer several pieces at one go. They are meant to give an edge to our simple, daily wear. And, the coming together of Western and Eastern sensibilities makes them stand out,” she notes. Claudia adds that she always wanted her jewellery to be affordable, so it can appeal to a wider range of people. If you’re in the city this July, you can splurge on her fabulous designs, as she’s set to host an exhibition in Kolkata, and will also release a new collection soon. 

Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000. Order via Facebook or the Instagram page of CVH Studio. 

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