Inspiration
Petra’s designs draw from a diverse range of cultural influences, from the Middle East to London, born of Egyptian and Syrian parents in Bahrain, Petra’s family came to London in the 1960s. Growing up in South East London, Petra has always drawn upon her cultural heritage and London upbringing. After completing her studies in Jewellery at Epsom School of Art and Design, she went on to set up her own jewellery design business in 1995 and opened her own studio at Cockpit Art in the same year. She combines teaching with running her own practice and taught and ran courses at Kensington & Chelsea College until 2017. Petra has participated in talks in London and Europe and continues to conduct workshops and courses for children and adults at the V&A.
Her interest in design and jewellery grew during her childhood, her father designed jewellery for her mother, including amongst other beautiful pieces, her engagement ring, a truly romantic gesture that inspired Petra to create her own pieces. Her early introduction to the design process gives her an intrinsic understanding of what is required to make jewellery beautiful to look at while at the same time easy to wear.
Striking and bold, Petra’s designs make a statement; they are both provocative and sensual. Each piece is superbly crafted to create jewellery that is distinctive either for every day or statement pieces for special occasions.
What her clients say…
Since I bought my very first piece of Petra’s jewellery, I now wear something that she has designed most days of my life – some from her collections and other pieces that I’ve commissioned. Petra’s designs work for the everyday, and for grander occasions. Wearing her pieces ensures you carry valuable memories with you wherever you are and whatever you’re doing. Sian Evans
Over the years I have managed to collect a number of Petra’s pieces which always look stunning and are guaranteed to provoke interest and questions. I love this beautiful thumb ring in silver and rose gold that Petra has just made for me. So happy. Mark George
Commissioning Petra was a joy. I talked about my wishes for a ring with family relevance. She got it immediately – we talked ideas and got to a great solution. And there was an inclusive process with a meaningful lovely piece of jewellery at the end. Olly Hatch
I have bought some brilliant jewellery from Petra some of which I wear every day. It is always remarked upon and admired. My ‘now’ husband secretly approached Petra to design and make my engagement ring, collaborating with her to bring the ideas to life. What a wonderful and unique surprise. It’s amazing!! She went on to make both of our wonderful wedding rings. Gail Priddey-Kirby & Andy Kirby
Petra pours her heart into everything she creates, be it a breath-taking bespoke engagement ring or an apparently simple pair of earrings. The meticulous care, the attention to the tiniest of details and the sheer quality of her work raises it beyond craft and into the realm of high art. Plus, she’s a right laugh, too. We love her. Mike and Anita xx
