5 minutes with Dean Davidson

What did you do before designing jewellery? “I was an agronomist, one who is concerned with the science of soil, crop management and land cultivation. I knew from the first day that it wasn’t what I was meant to do.”

How did you get into jewellery design? “I went to South Africa and fell in love with the culture’s adornment, and when I returned I started to design some pieces myself. Paul Hardy saw my work and asked me to collaborate on the jewellery for his Spring 2006 show. I’d work all day with the farming community and come home at night to design my pieces. In 2007, I moved to Toronto and launched my first solo collection.”

How would you describe your collection? “It has a clean, architectural look with a heavy brushed texture or finish—that’s a detail you don’t see in other collections. There’s an organic feel to it and a sense of raw beauty.”

Who would you love to see wearing your pieces? “Cate Blanchett. She has a similar aesthetic to my jewellery: minimalism with a twist.”

How has your look evolved? “When I collaborated with Paul Hardy, there was a lot of wire work and use of gemstones. I’ve moved away from that to a very pared-down, clean look.”