Ana de Costa
With her love of beautiful objects, romantic vision and eye for opportunity, Ana de Costa is recognised in the jewellery world as one of the UK’s leading young designer-makers. The daughter of a Latin businessman and English aristocrat, the 28-year-old jeweller has built a reputation for vibrant, mystical pieces inspired by Art Nouveau decadence.
Her achievements are testament to a winning combination of talent and tenacity, and a generous helping of good luck. Before even starting her degree course in Jewellery Design at Central Saint Martins in 2002, Ana had gained industry experience with Erickson Beamon, working on catwalk pieces for Ungaro and Cavali. During this time, she met Shaun Leane and Alexander McQueen, who both had a great influence on her career during future collaborations.
Ana is also one of a large pool of London-based designer-makers who have benefited from funding and training opportunities. As a start-up business, Ana received a fit-out and equipment grant awarded by Camden Council. She later pursued ‘The Art of Jewellery Design’ course at Holts Academy of Jewellery, as part of the Bespoke Training and Technology Programme. London Jewellery Exports, also funded her participation in a trade mission to New York and the Kara jewellery show in Paris.
“Any contribution makes a difference,” commented Ana. “The constant challenge in the jewellery industry is to generate cash flow, to find the money to allow your business to grow and to steer it in the right direction.”
