Jewellery

David-Andersen’s eclectic floral enamel jewellery is plucked from the landscape of Norway

By Allyson Shiffman

Photo: David-Andersen

The iconic ‘Flora’ collection by Norwegian heritage jewellery house David-Andersen relies on ancient enamel techniques to create eclectic pieces that feel impossibly of-the-moment. We delve into the collection’s colourful history

Revered Norwegian jewellery house David-Andersen’s floral enamel pieces are wearable works of art. Fashioned in gold-plated silver and enamel and dubbed simply ‘Flora’, the collection, which expands on the offering initially imagined by designer Kikki Kvaal in the 1980s, draws inspiration from the flowers that bloom across Norway.

The lovely white Spergula arvensis (a species of carnation), which dot fields and mountainsides and sweet blue forget-me-nots, a symbol of friendship and good luck, are joined by splattering of wild florals to decorate eclectic necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets. A veritable bouquet of delicate yet striking pieces to welcome longer days and warmer weather.

This is not the first time the iconic Flora collection has found new life. In 2016, to mark the 140th anniversary of David-Andersen, the collection was joined with four-leaf clovers and playful butterflies. This time around, the dramatic snapdragon, nicknamed ‘Natt och Dag’ (day and night) for its contrasting colours joins the mix. Also nestled in the arrangement this spring is the Flora Buttercup, a nostalgia-inducing yellow wildflower that's both playful and elegant.

The enamel is painstakingly applied by hand at the Opro’s workshop in Oslo. Photo: David Andersen

Photo: David-Andersen

Photo: David-Andersen

To pluck a piece from the Flora collection is to wear a piece of history. Founded in the late 19th century by Norwegian goldsmith David Andersen, David-Andersen has long been synonymous with extraordinary craft and attention to detail. From the very start, Andersen developed international buzz for his prowess in enamel. In fact, in 1888, he set up his own enamel workshop, becoming a bona fide master in the craft. Meanwhile, the brand remains in the family to this day, his enamelled legacy carried on by the fifth generation.

Though these floral masterpieces begin with a 3D rendering, the process of crafting the pieces remains much the same as it was when David Andersen himself was at the helm of his jewellery house. The enamel is painstakingly applied by hand at the Opro’s workshop in Oslo – one of the last remaining enamel workshops in Norway.

Statement earrings, featuring the flax flower. Photo: David-Andersen

A flora enamelled gold necklace . Photo: David-Andersen

The 'Natt och Dag' hoops. Photo: David-Andersen

Though drawing inspiration from the Scandinavian landscape is a timeless tradition in our region, now more than ever eclectic ‘florals for spring’ feel resonant, bringing a touch of organic beauty to our wardrobes. With their rich history and singular artistry, David-Andersen’s offering begs to be plucked.