Loop Generation is thrilled to collaborate with Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones, the founder of MATITA Jewellery, showcasing her stunning jewellery inspired by heritage, nature, and Notting Hill’s eclectic energy. We sat down with Margarita to dive into her creative practice, exploring how childhood memories of collecting stones and her love for natural beauty shape each intricate piece. Now on display at Loop Generation and available to purchase, this collection brings her unique story and craftsmanship straight to our Chelsea store - don’t miss it!
MATITA Jewellery
Loop Generation: Growing up with such a rich heritage, how did your upbringing shape your sense of style and creativity, especially in jewellery?
Margarita Armstrong-Jones: As a child I was fortunate enough to travel to all sorts of fascinating places. Everywhere we went I would fill my pockets with stones and shells. Even the rich colour of the Kalahari’s ochre sand was like gold dust to me. I was introduced to unique natural forms from a very early age and the uniqueness of them all peaked my interest as they were one of a kind. Which is now reflected in my collections.
LG: What do you love most about living and working in London, and how does the city influence your designs?
MAJ: I live in Notting Hill where there is such an eclectic mix of people and shops. There are plenty of stalls selling stones and jewellery, from modern designs to ancient. There is such a rich collection of colours, designs and markets. The pieces being sold are usually made by the vendor, meaning I can ask all sorts of questions about the origins and design process.
LG: When did you first discover your passion for jewellery, and was there a particular moment or piece that sparked it?
MAJ: My passion for jewellery stemmed from my love of stones and shells which was sparked by beloved grandfather who introduced me to jewellery from as far back as I can remember. He opened up my eyes to the wonders of African nature, which has had a deep impact on my life. I have developed a deep love for Africa through his passion and love for when he lived there. Together with his wife, Anita I can admit that they’re responsible for opening up my eyes to the wonders of the world.
Additionally my father was a real inspiration into design and the love for craft. My mother has always encouraged me to observe and as a result I have develop an eye for beauty.
LG: Your pieces have such an intricate, handcrafted feel. Can you share a bit about your process and the craftsmanship involved?
MAJ: I have a little book which I always jot down ideas, designs, photographs, and thoughts in which have sparked inspiration. I will either draw it, paint a watercolour to visualise my concepts. It is very important to me to visualise what I am aiming to achieve so I can look back and have a clear sense of where the story begins. I buy stones which I find fascinating and have a connection with, such as the colours and shapes but really most importantly they need to have the energy! I lay them out on a table top and piece together combinations that work with what I previously mentioned.
LG: What role does heritage play in your work, and do you find yourself drawing from family history or personal memories when creating designs?
MAJ: I have been lucky enough to have been given stones which have been owned and loved and I theres nothing more thrilling than to give them a new lease of life.
LG: What materials do you feel most connected to, and how do they contribute to the story you aim to tell with your jewellery?
MAJ: I am most connected to forms that are naturalistic, bold and beautiful! Some natural forms are so mesmerising, I feel often that they should be worn, felt and seen. Living in a modern world, sometimes feels disconnected from the natural world so by creating pieces using stones and shells almost brings you closer.
LG: How do you balance tradition with innovation in your pieces, especially with the rich background you bring to the field?
MAJ: I greatly admire traditional jewellery when it comes down to the method of which they were made but when it comes to making my own, I like to be more playful with colour, texture and size.
LG: If you could design a piece inspired by one place in London that holds a special meaning to you, where would it be and what would it look like?
MAJ: It would have to be the Mineralogy collection at the Natural History Museum, consisting of 500,000 rocks, minerals and meteorites. I take much of my inspiration from the huge variety of rare wonders of the world. The piece would be an accumulation of raw stones which would emulate the raw beauty of the individual stones.
LG: What advice would you give to other young designers just starting out, especially those who want to bring a sense of craftsmanship into their work?
MAJ: I would say be brave and have the courage to see their ideas through. Design pieces that encapsulates your individual character and always wear your designs!
