We chatted to Scotland based Petra Palumbo about her practice and about her perspective on jewellery...
Where do you usually look for inspiration — nature, history, personal memories?
Mostly nature—living in Scotland, I'm surrounded by it every moment of the day, and it's incredibly beautiful. Its colours and its changing seasons inspire me deeply. I'm also inspired by people who lead with empathy and heart, and who stand up against injustice in an attempt to make this world a better, fairer and safer place—like Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah, a British-Palestinian surgeon who has travelled repeatedly to Gaza to volunteer his medical expertise under extremely dangerous conditions, treating the wounded during conflicts and raising awareness internationally about the humanitarian crisis.
What’s your favourite piece you've ever designed, and why?
Our signature hand-painted carafe and tumblers set is still my favourite piece I've ever designed. It holds a special place in my heart because it was the very first product that launched my brand and set the tone for everything that followed. It combined functionality with artistry, which has always been a core part of my philosophy as a designer.
What's your take on sustainable luxury, and how do you make that tangible in your brand?
To me, sustainable luxury means creating beautiful, lasting pieces with care and purpose. In my brand, that translates into working with local artisans, using responsibly sourced materials, and keeping production intentional. It's about quality, not excess—and making sure every piece is thoughtful, responsible, and made to last.
How do you source your materials, and what's your process for working with artisans or local makers?
I source my materials as locally and responsibly as possible, always prioritising quality and sustainability. I work closely with skilled artisans—many based in the UK—building relationships that are collaborative and long-term. Each piece is the result of shared craftsmanship and care, and I'm involved in every step to ensure it aligns with both the aesthetic and values of the brand.
One of the biggest challenges was managing minimum order quantities early on—it really pushed me to believe in the product and commit fully. That conviction has been essential. As the brand has grown, staying true to our values—craftsmanship, sustainability, and quality—has been non-negotiable. Scaling while holding onto those principles hasn't always been easy, but it's what defines us. Learning to wear many hats and knowing when to say no have also been crucial parts of the journey.
6am: wake up thanks to our little human alarm clocks.
6am-8.30am: breakfast as a family and get our eldest ready for forest school.
8.30am: out the door for school drop off.
9am-12pm: at my desk in the studio, team catch up and make my plan for the day.
12pm: early lunch with youngest.
12.30-2.30pm: work in the studio.
2.30-3.30pm: reformer pilates class.
4pm: collect eldest from school.
5pm: back home, make dinner.
5.30pm: dinner with the kids.
6.30pm: bathtime, followed by bed.
7pm: catch up on more emails and work.
9pm: bed.
Your home sounds like a haven—how did you go about curating that space, and what feeling did you want it to evoke?
Our home is colourful, comfortable, and full of pattern—a true reflection of both my interests and my husband's background. It's an eclectic mix of influences from the Levant and Scottish heritage, where old meets new in a way that feels layered and lived-in. I wanted it to feel warm, welcoming, and personal—a space that tells a story and sparks joy.
What does jewellery mean to you?
Jewellery, to me, is deeply personal. I've always loved it—I've even studied it—and it's something I wear every day. I never feel fully dressed wihtout a pair of earrings; they're the final touch that completes any outfit. Jewellery carries meaning, marks moments, and becomes part of who you are. It's both an expression and a connection.
How do you style your jewellery?
I wear a lot of costume jewellery—especially earrings—as I think they really frame and brighten the face, giving it an instant lift. I love to accessorise with rings for a touch of personality, and in the evening, I often reach for a choker to add a bit of drama. For me, jewellery is about playfulness and expression—it's the finishing touch that brings a look together.
Can you tell us a bit more about your morning / wellness routine?
To be honest, my mornings are usually a bit of a scramble—getting the kids up and ready for the day. But I always try to carve out a quiet moment for myself, usually with a coffee and a bowl of chia pudding topped with nuts and berries. My self-care routine is very simple: I use only olive oil as a facial moisturiser, do reformer Pilates three to four times a week, and walk in nature most days when I take the dogs out. It's those small, grounding rituals that help me stay balanced.
What name do you like to go by?
Petra and for those who know me well, it's Peggy.
What is your ethnicity?
Half Lebanese, Quarter English, Quarter Italian
Where are you living in the world?
Between Scotland and London
What’s your star-sign?
I'm a Cancer.
Favourite genre of music right now?
Ethio-Jazz
Favourite time of day? - Sunrise, sunset, or midnight?
Sunset
2024 was the year of reassessing every corner of my life—work, friendships, priorities, and my worldview. It was a time of deep reflection, where I truly questioned what I wanted to carry forward and what I was ready to let go of. Through this process, I gained a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, both personally and professionally. I made conscious decisions to steamline certain areas of my business, focus on what genuinely brings me joy, and surround myself with people who have heart, who inspire me, and who energise me. Moving into the future, I feel more grounded, more intentional, and more connected to the bigger picture of what I'm trying to build.