MUSE COUTURE CONVOS: Matturi

Welcome to "Muse COUTURE Convos," where we journey into the world of exceptional fine jewelry with the talented designers showcasing their fabulous collections at the annual COUTURE Show in Las Vegas. In this exciting series, we explore the inspirations, craftsmanship, and stories behind some of the most stunning collections in the industry. Join us as we chat with these visionary artists, unveiling the passion and creativity that drive their work. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a jewelry enthusiast, our conversations promise to inspire and enchant, bringing you closer to the heart of jewelry.

Satta Matturi, leveraging a 17-year diamond career and expertise from one of the world's largest diamond mining groups, founded the award-winning Matturi Fine Jewellery. British with West-African heritage, she blends African traditions with a global perspective, crafting distinct contemporary designs in her namesake brand. Here, Satta talks COUTURE. 

Tell us what you’re focusing on or debuting at COUTURE this year. 

Matturi Fine Jewellery will bring some refreshed versions of our signature styles, inspired by our signature mask design, crafted using a myriad of specially cut stones. 

We are also celebrating the fact that we now use Single-Mined Origin Gold (SMO GOLD). This is a big milestone for the brand, as we are conscious of our footprint and are pleased to take this bold step to ensure that most of our creations use the best materials sourced responsibly and sustainably. All the pieces showcasing in COUTURE this year have been made using SMO Gold.

Which piece from the collection you’re showing at COUTURE best captures your essence as a designer?

The Pengusa earrings in red jasper. Eye-catching drop earrings made using specially cut jasper stone and adorned with just the right dosage of brilliant cut diamonds. A true depiction of the brand and its distinctiveness.

If you had to describe what prepping for COUTURE feels like, how would you describe it?

Multi-tasking extraordinaire!  It can get quite stressful as the days draw near, particularly if there are pieces that are still on the bench being finalized – but then the feeling of having everything completed is truly satisfying; its seeing all those pieces come to life after so many months of sketching, sourcing and production.

Do you have a favorite COUTURE memory from years past?

My very first COUTURE, when I exhibited within the design atelier, was in 2018. It was daunting, to say the least, but I do recall making a lot of acquaintances who have become very good friends and mentors over the years.

Now, onto some general jewelry questions! If you could only work with one gemstone for the rest of your career, which would it be and why?

Diamonds. I have worked in the diamond industry for over two decades and still do to this day. They are the only gemstone that brings the brilliance, luster and wow factor to any creation.

Which historical era do you wish you could have designed jewelry in, and what appeals to you about that time?

I just love the lines, curves, and timelessness of the Art Deco era. There is something bold and definitive about the designs from that time in jewelry, art, fashion, architecture, and furniture. It was also partly influenced by African art, which also inspired some of our work. 

What is one thing you hope people will remember about your jewelry 100 years from now?

Creations that are bold, innovative, and design-led.