Style Q&A: Vancouver jeweller Bradley George creates sleek, 'gender-neutral' designs
Credit to Author: Aleesha Harris| Date: Tue, 20 Aug 2019 18:00:10 +0000
Longtime custom jeweller Bradley George‘s retail lineup was one built purely out of necessity.
While the Vancouver-based designer had built a strong customer base for his one-off custom pieces, he received regular feedback from friends who bemoaned the lack of thoughtfully designed jewelry for men that wasn’t throwaway, but wasn’t exactly at a level of bespoke, either.
So, he decided to build out his brand and give them exactly what they were looking for: stylish pieces crated from sterling silver, some with diamonds and some without. We caught up with George to learn more.
Q. When and why did you first start your jewelry line?
A. All of my friends travel constantly and I kept hearing that there was no cool jewelry out there for men, or if there was it was all cheaply made. Looking to expand from custom, I wanted to create a collection that would become daily staples for men with style, at an accessible price point — all the while maintaining the quality standards of my custom designs. This started about one-and-a-half years ago, just before Christmas, as I was designing a gift for my boyfriend at the time
Q. How has it changed since it first began?
A. We have grown from our small custom shop to manufacturing in Germany. We simply couldn’t keep up with demand in our little shop. Germany is known for their precision, so it was the best fit for us to maintain quality. So, many great things to come with this new stage.
Q. What makes it unique from other jewelry brands?
A. We hand-make each piece, milled from a block of metal. We don’t cast any of our jewelry. You can feel the difference when you hold a BG piece. Our diamonds are top-tier, full-cut and hand-set. We don’t just toss in the cheapest stones to be able to say diamond jewelry — they are of actual value, and aesthetically, add actual value to the piece.
Designs by the Vancouver-based jewelry designer Bradley George.
Q. And who is your target customer?
A. Initially it was mostly focused on men, ages 25-45, but we have since seen women of the same age group and beyond purchasing. (It’s those who are) looking for something more bold for their casual looks. Though designed with men in mind, it is very much a gender-neutral collection.
Q. Is there a ‘hero’ product in your collections? If so, which one and why?
A. Our Cuff would be our “hero” item. Its chic, subtle details and proportion allow you to wear it with a watch, or stack with other bangles and bracelets. It can hold its own all by itself, as well. The satin finish, accented with the three diamonds, adds a bit of texture to your style.
Q. What’s new for the latest season?
A. Black diamonds and new shapes! Launching Fall 2019.
Q. What is the price range for your pieces?
A. From $489 to $889 Canadian.
Q. Lastly, where can people check them out?
A. Online at bradleygeorge.com. Or locally at Time and Gold on Georgia, Revolucion in Yaletown — or, check your friends wrist next time you hang out.