WILLIAM WELSTEAD

William works with a fourth-generation diamond dealer in India whose imaginative cutting techniques preserve methods long lost in Europe. He also seeks antique diamonds, often with imperfect proportions but incredible charm and light. Dutch rose-cut diamonds from the 17th and 18th centuries are among my favorites, and he searches for them with dealers across Europe and Asia.

 Coloured gemstones have always been central to his work, inspired by the jewels of the Maharajahs and Nizams of Mughal India, featuring Colombian emeralds, Burmese rubies, sapphires, spinels, and natural pearls.

William designs simple, sculptural settings to showcase each stone’s natural beauty. Craftsmanship is vital, and some pieces are remade multiple times until satisfied. Each piece is handmade in England, with my workshop creating a limited number of pieces each year, including bespoke designs. He enjoys collaborating with clients on custom pieces, exploring unique possibilities beyond conventional norms for diamond engagement rings.