Although widely used, mother of pearl has never reached the symbolic status of traditional precious gemstones; Melanie’s ‘MOP Facets’ collection sets out to question this, inviting us to consider why, and what it is that adds preciousness or value to a piece of jewellery.

From this underrated flat material, seamless, faceted three dimensional forms are created that mimic popular stone cuts. Taking advantage of the full range of natural colours, the collection showcases richly iridescent golds, peacocks, pinks and whites, in some cases paired with matching freshwater or South Sea pearls.