Assya

Name: Tessa Grazzini

Occupation: Designer and Founder of Assya

Piece of jewellery you couldn’t live without?
Since I can remember, I have always worn jewellery. I received my first bracelet when I was 2 years old. Jewellery is the ultimate accessory, and with time and fashion it changes. I always keep my old jewellery because every piece has a special meaning to me. Each piece is timeless. The most special of all is the first stone I ever bought – a star Sapphire from Sri Lanka.

If you could go back to 2003 when you set up Assya, what would you change?

Looking back, I would not change anything! I would do it all over again without hesitation! I started Assya with very little budget and it has been a challenge to grow the label to where it is today with distribution in more than 12 countries. But, if someone had given me one hundred thousand pounds, it would have been much easier of course!

Most unusual place/subject which you’ve found inspiration from?

I find inspiration in everything that’s around me. It may be a vintage dress I saw someone wearing, a shoe, a flower garden, a tree, or even a work of art. My travels to India and South America, as well as the Frida Kahlo exhibition were influential in designing my new collection.

What’s been your most memorable experience of London Fashion Week 2006?

Taking part in London Fashion Week has been an amazing experience. Being alongside established designers and seeing buyers and press stopping at the stand and loving ASSYA jewellery was fabulous.

Album most listened to?

Elvis Presley.