Russh Magazine

Last week is turning out to be a heavy hitter on the high street with Maison Martin Margiela launching in H&M, on the same day as our own Jordan Askill unveils his debut jewellery collection for TOPSHOP.

"It’s been a long time in the making,” explains the London-based designer, “because we wanted to do something that was really high quality and precious. ”Working closely with TOPSHOP’s production team, Askill says the high-end finish was a real joint effort and a labour of love.

Looking to ancient Egyptian artifacts for design inspiration Askill focused in on a carved feline panther face, which dominates the seven-piece collection that’s made from coloured black rhodium and gold plate. “They loved the panther as this majestic animal,” explains the British Fashion Council NEWGEN recipient, “so I took that and wanted to do something that's classic, and that girls would want to wear all the time.”

Detachable pendants, playful lockets and secret charms finish off the transformative range. “I like the idea of keeping something precious with you so we did lockets - an idea we then played on with a charm bracelet and then the cuffs with detachable pendants as well.”

He smiles, “So if you turn up to your friends house without a present you can take one of the little charms off and give it to your friend to put on their own necklace.” Gifts that keep on giving with the connectable genius of Voltron. Remember the 80’s cartoon? In store at Oxford Circus, Askill’s also incorporated his love of sculpture into a super-sized panther compound. “The panther family home,” he finishes with a laugh.

Available online from 15 November, 2012.

READ THE RUSSH INTERVIEW WITH TOPSHOP CREATIVE DIRECTOR KATIE PHELAN HERE