Rosh Mahtani Alighieri

Wanderlustre: Alighieri’s travel-inspired talismans

With a plethora of pieces influenced by art, literature, and globe-trotting adventures, cult British jewellery brand Alighieri designs stylish talismans for the modern traveller.

Breathing new life into the ancient art of lost-wax casting, founder and self-taught jeweller Rosh Mahtani hand-crafts modern heirlooms from recycled bronze, silver, and gold — and has recently been awarded an OBE for her services to Jewellery Design and Philanthropy. As its name suggests, legendary poet Dante Alighieri was a key inspiration behind the brand — Mahtani has sculpted a piece for every canto in The Divine Comedy. Cast, polished, assembled, and plated in London’s Hatton Garden, Alighieri’s creations offer a fresh take on the concept of a lucky or protective amulet, adding a touch of charm to any ensemble.

Tell us about your early memories of Zambia. What does this place mean to you?

I have so many magical memories of growing up in Zambia. There wasn’t much to do, so we really had to live in our imagination. I used to make paint out of leaves, collect stones and fragments to make my own necklaces, and play barefoot in the warm rain with my brother. It was pure innocence.

How have your travels inspired your craft?

My travels are a huge source of inspiration for my craft — I’ve always loved that every culture, since the beginning of time, has used jewellery as a means of dialogue. I’ve been endlessly inspired by the pieces I’ve seen and the people I’ve met, from African tribes, and Mexican craftspeople, to archaeologists in Pompeii. I always start each collection by going on a solo trip with my 35mm film camera, exploring the world through my own lens.

You’re packing for a summer holiday, which modern heirlooms are travelling with you?

I always pack the Leone Medallion for strength and courage, as well as the St Christopher Medallion, representing safe travels. My wardrobe is quite minimalist — think blue or white jeans and tanks — so I always take The Link of Wanderlust Belt and its matching camera strap to complete my uniform.

I actually feel most myself when I’m travelling — particularly by train, watching new horizons and landscapes emerge to the motion of the carriage.

Which hotels are on your wish list, and why?

To experience omotenashi hospitality, I would love to visit Hotel Gajoen Tokyo in the hip Meguro district. To completely switch off on a Greek island, I would choose Domes White Coast Milos and venture over to the moonlike Sarakiniko beach.

ROSH MAHTANI

“The question of identity — where am I from, where do I belong — drove me to create my own universe.”

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