This former interior designer embraces celestial themes and a soulful aesthetic in her jewelry.
Stylized stars, moons and suns feature heavily in Pamela Zamore’s jewels. The Boston, Massachusetts-based designer finds inspiration in the celestial elements, rendering them in textured, recycled gold with ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones. Her signature polished-and-matte finish creates a timeless look, and her jewelry is particularly suitable for layering. A former interior designer, Zamore brings her love of architecture, decorative arts and ancient imagery to each of her creations. Here, she tells us more about her process.
When did you decide to move from interior design to jewelry making?
About seven years ago, when I was looking for a creative shift in my life. I just began sketching one day, drawing on a concept for a collection that had been forming over the course of time. The ideas just flowed. Before long, I had filled a whole sketch book.
What influences your work as a designer?
More than anything, a memory filled with visual imagery I have filed away of architectural details, decorative arts and antique and vintage jewelry. The bright energy of my pieces is derived from a sense of inner light that I feel as a human being, a sense of vibrancy. This is the energy I bring to my designs, and the energy with which they are intended to resonate.
How do you find inspiration for your work?
I would not so much say that I seek out inspiration. It’s more that it presents itself to me. Or I have seen something in my past and been struck by it so much that it remained within my memory, allowing me to draw on it. It could be an Art Deco door, a ceiling detail in a Moorish temple, or an ancient African artifact.
Who are your favorite jewelry designers?
I am a lover of the detail and strong shapes of ancient jewelry, some Victorian jewels, vintage American designer pieces, and the powerful lines and geometry of Native American and Mexican jewelry. To name a few modern designers, I have great admiration for the work of Loren Nicole, Lilly Fitzgerald, Alice Cicolini, Feral Jewelry, Bibi van der Velden and many more. There are numerous different styles that resonate with me.
How would you describe your personal aesthetic?
Eclectic. When an object speaks to me, regardless of the value of it, high or low, I may buy it. What is most important to me is that the objects around me tell a story or reflect a moment or memory from my past. I prefer things that are handmade, not mass production — that have a sense of soul to them.
Who do you think of as the wearer when you start a collection?
Women like me, who are unlikely to purchase a piece of fine jewelry that is frivolous or trendy. They are looking for pieces that are elegant and soulful but that will stand the test of time, that they can live in and feel good in day after day and pass on to their daughters.
Where and how is your jewelry made?
My pieces are finely cast and finished by my team in Rhode Island, who have been working with me since I launched my silver collection. They take great care in their work, paying very close attention to the fine details and sandblast finish of my pieces.
How do you think people’s relation to fine jewelry has been changed by the coronavirus lockdown?
In the last few years, there has been a shift toward a desire for jewelry of a symbolic quality, and the fear and uncertainty of the Covid-19 era has furthered expanded this. My jewelry is not so much about disparate symbols, but is an expression of who we already are. The radiance of these pieces is intended to echo the natural light within the wearer. It is from this light that all of our most noble qualities flow.
What’s your personal favorite item of jewelry?
I would have to say the Twelve Point Star pendant with diamond. It’s a go-to piece for me, a brilliant medium-size medallion with details that catch the light beautifully. It is the first piece that I cast in 18-karat yellow gold, and it holds a special place in my heart. I am rarely seen not wearing it.
Main image: Pamela Zamore. (Pamela Zamore)
