Hi! Do you mind introducing yourself?
Hi! I'm Merill Hollander, founder and designer of Fiametta Jewelry.
Where are you currently?
I'm currently in my home office in Brooklyn, New York.
How did you arrive at creating your line?
I was inspired to create Fiametta a few years ago out of a desire for jewelry that felt nontraditional in both materials and messaging, and I simply couldn't find what I was looking for. I've always been a creative person, and I decided to channel all of that energy into building a jewelry brand. I quickly became completely obsessed with the craft, which led me to study diamonds at GIA and teach myself jewelry design from the ground up.
What are three words that best describe the brand?
Nontraditional, expressive, and refined.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
One of the best parts of my job is that there's no typical workday. Some days are spent entirely sourcing stones, others at trunk shows or meeting with clients. Some days I'm on set for a photoshoot, and others I'm heads-down on the more administrative side of running a business. My schedule really depends on the time of year and what we have coming up next. Right now I’m focused on putting the final touches on our next collection.
What about jewelry is so exciting to work with?
I love how immersed in the details I can get. Even fractions of a millimeter can make a big difference in a design. As a detail-oriented person, there's nothing more satisfying than finally getting it right. I also love working with different stones. There's something so fun about learning about them, sourcing them, and collecting the ones I find fascinating, with the hope that my clients will too.
Who is your ultimate jewelry muse?
Honestly, it's always changing. More often than not, it's someone I encounter out in the world: a stranger whose style stops me in my tracks and inspires me to think about how to style a piece in our next collection, or sparks an idea for something I want to create. Jewelry is so personal. The way people collect and wear their pieces is such a direct reflection of who they are, and I'm endlessly inspired by watching that individual expression come to life.
Do you have a favorite stone?
Sapphire, and not just because it's my birthstone. Growing up, I actually didn’t like sapphire because I thought they only came in that inky dark blue that I never really connected with. But as I learned more about jewelry, I discovered the whole spectrum of colors they come in. I'm especially drawn to a lighter shade of blue with an almost violet tone, which is exactly what we find in the Sri Lankan sapphires we use in our line.
What is your favorite piece available at Broken English?
My favorite piece is definitely our Jumbo Pavé Pendant on Leather Cord. It's such a fun piece that is effortlessly casual, but on the right person who's willing to experiment a little with their style, it looks exceptionally chic and elegant when dressed up. A little different, in the best way.
Is there anything new and exciting you have coming up?
We have a new collection launching in October that we're really excited about. We're focusing on pieces that wrap and drape beautifully around the body.
Best place to find inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere, often in antique jewelry, but also in art across all mediums. Color, texture, form, movement, there are so many elements you encounter in everyday life that can translate beautifully into jewelry. I'm always observing and collecting ideas, even when I'm not consciously looking.
Best soundtrack for designing?
Everything by DRAMA. They're a duo and I listen to every song on repeat while I work.
Best book you've read lately?
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. It's a story that felt surprisingly resonant for someone who spends their days thinking about objects and the meaning we attach to them.
Best movie or show you've watched recently?
Friends & Neighbors. I watch every week!
Best way to wind down after a busy season?
I find that the quiet after a busy season is when my best creative thinking happens. With less pressure, I finally have space to sit down and start putting ideas on paper for the next collection before the busy season begins again.
