The Jewelry Brand that Won the Queen Elizabeth II Award
Rosh Mahtani’s jewelry brand Alighieri earned her this year’s Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design.
The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design recognizes designers who embody originality in their work and commit to sustainable and ethical practices and dedication to community values. It comes as no shock then that Princess Anne finalized London fashion week yesterday by presenting Alighieri’s Rosh Mahtani with the prestigious award, decided by the British Fashion Council and the royal household.
With the fashion industry facing increased pressure to habituate sustainability from groups like Extinction Rebellion and environmentally conscious individuals around the world, Mahtani focuses on creating jewelry made predominantly with recycled bronze. The earth-forward jewelry designer prioritizes the concept of pieces that are made to last forever rather than just one season; her signature is vintage looking gold-plated pieces that feel like a modern heirloom. Mahtani also believes in the power of knowing who has made the brand’s jewelry, not only for environmental and ethical reasons but because of her close relationship to the business.
“Her ethical approach and commitment to local manufacturing, combined with her ability to make beautiful, timeless, made-by-hand jewelry, makes her an inspiration for many young British designers,” said Caroline Rush, chief executive of the BFC.
Originating in 2018, the award is a step in the right direction towards fashion becoming a conscious industry, and with Alighieri being the first jewelry line to receive the award, it will hopefully see designers from all over the fashion world making a positive impact in coming years.
