Our DESIGNER
GINA FELDMAN LOVE, AUVERE COFOUNDER & DESIGNER
Image Credit: Gina Feldman LoveQ: How did you get into design?
I fell in love with fashion design when I was young. Those times were pre-internet so I consumed fashion through magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and any indie magazine I could find in my town. More importantly, I grew up around, and was heavily influenced by, women who were all about style and creativity — my mother and her mother.
In college I majored in political science and history. Nevertheless, I spent an inordinate amount of time sketching dresses, jewelry, shoes and bags. Once in law school, I continued sketching unabated. By the time I realized that I should have explored a career in design, I was interviewing for jobs as a lawyer.
Several years later, while practicing law at one of New York City’s mega-firms, I decided to take night and weekend classes at Parsons. I studied handbag and jewelry design, branding and pattern-making. Shortly thereafter, I created Peryton, a New York-based leather goods brand, which led to Auvere.
Q: Do you have a design philosophy? If so, what is it?
I respect the materials with which we work. In the case of Auvere, I want to highlight the beauty of precious metals and gemstones. This results in a more minimalist, architectural design. Generally speaking, I pursue symmetry and harmony; however, on occasion, I like to add an unexpected element. I also want to inspire delight and desire - to have fun with design.
Q: What’s your favorite category of jewelry?
I love rings! Right now, my absolute favorite ring is the Praying Mantis Diamond Ring Wide. Additionally, I am fond of big cuffs and bold chain link bracelets. I prefer big jewelry but I do appreciate a delicate necklace from time to time.
Q: How would you describe Auvere’s aesthetic in five words:
Sculptural. Uncluttered. Fresh. Bold. Solid.
Q: How often do you release new collections and pieces?
We release a new piece every month per month. We create new collections periodically and then continue to fill them out over time.
WORK IN PROGRESS
Image and design credit plus copyright: Gina Feldman LoveQ: Do you design every single Auvere piece? What is your design process?
I design every single piece. I sketch every design by hand in multiple iterations until the design feels resolved. Then I think through the dimensions of each piece. My drawing is turned into a CAD drawing, which I review and revise to make sure that the design is properly reflected and the dimensions and gold weight work for the piece. Once I approve the CAD, we make the first samples in wax or silver. I revise the sample until I am satisfied. Then we produce the final piece.
Q: Tell us about the creative inspiration for a few of the collections.
The Astrella Collection was inspired by the discovery of 7 new eco-planets in 2017. Sculptura resulted from my desire to create pieces that were heavy and sculptural. I was very much inspired by the work of Constantin Brancusi. The Arignote Collection is named after the first known female mathematician — Arignote. These pieces are linear and more precise. With the Talisman Collection, I wanted to take beloved icons and give them my twist. Scrivere resulted from my desire to include words in design.
Q: You were a lawyer at one time. Is there anything from your legal career that influences your career as a jewelry designer?
I was a real estate lawyer for a while. I chose real estate because it was as creative as it got in the law. My work ultimately led to the construction of office, hotel, retail and residential buildings. Real estate developments can be beautifully realized. Maybe, as a result of that experience, I find myself inspired by, and creating, very architectural looking pieces.