#theinnovators is a CFE photo series where we meet with the creative talent and alumni supported on the Fashion and Technology Emerging Futures Project. We visit them in the spaces where the magic happens.

Rachel Boston’s style is one which redefines the traditional jewellery aesthetic. As a graduate from Central Saint Martins, Rachel continued her studies at the Gemological Institute of America in New York where she received her diploma in Diamond Grading. This in turn, set the backdrop for the Rachel Boston brand – an undeniable skill in transforming a raw diamond into a wearable and unique piece aimed at those ‘who like their fine jewellery with understated edge and elegance.’

Rachel is also a recipient of the renowned jewellery initiative; ‘Rock Vault’ with other industry accolades including Designer of the Year (2018), a nomination for New Designer of the Year at the UK Jewellery Awards (2014), being named by Elle, Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar as a ‘designer you need to know’ as well as being selected in the Professional Jeweller Hot 100 Awards.

Jewellery is created in her East London workshop, and in the capital of stone cutting; Jaipur. We visited Rachel (and the adorable Stevie) for a tour around her work space and to get a closer look at her bespoke bridal gems.

How would you summarise your brand in three words?

Alternative Bespoke & Bridal

How was the concept of Rachel Boston born? 

I started my brand 7 years ago on a work bench in my living room where I made silver collections which I sold in stores such as Paul Smith, Dover Street Market and My Wardrobe. Over time as I moved in to fine jewellery I began receiving more and more bespoke requests and gradually this became my sole focus. I realised there was a real gap in the market for jewellery designers creating unique and well-crafted engagement rings and I work a lot with unusual cuts and imperfect diamonds. I now run my company from the appointment only showroom in Cheshire Street in East London where I meet one on one with customer’s looking for bespoke engagement/wedding rings or from my existing collections.

London has the greatest collection of museums and galleries so I love spending my days off at the Barbican, V&A or Wellcome collection. Eltham Palace is an incredible spot.

What brings you the greatest satisfaction about what you do?

When the client collects the ring! I’ve had brides in tears of joy and it’s truly such a special moment to be a part of. I feel honoured to share it with my clients.

Where do you see your brand in 5 years?

Right now I’m really enjoying taking a break from wholesale and working directly with my customers but I think at some point in the future I’ll start selling with select stores again so that I can have some more international POS for my engagement rings.

How did being on the Jewellery Pioneer Programme impact your business?

I found the Jewellery Pioneer programme incredibly helpful. Having one on one mentorship time is totally invaluable, and gave me a lot of focus to strategise my time better. Working for yourself can be quite isolating and with a little outside perspective the sessions really gave me the opportunity to step back and set myself targets. I’m very grateful to have been given so much support.

@rachelbostonjewellery | www.rachelboston.co.uk

Rachel Boston is an alumni of the Jewellery Pioneer Programme, a six month bespoke and workshop programme delivered in partnership with CENTA and Centre for Fashion Enterprise. The Jewellery Pioneer Programme nurtures, identifies & provides solutions for emerging London-based jewellery businesses.

Find out more and apply to be our next Jewellery Pioneer:

Jewellery Pioneer Programme

Photography credits – Emmi Hyyppa