Annette Tillander is a jewelry artist and fifth-generation Finnish jewelry designer, whose unique style and skillful craftsmanship make her jewelry recognizable, timeless pieces that can be combined with each other – and meaningful to the wearer.
Jewelry, diamonds, gemstones and pearls have always been a part of Annette Tillander's life, starting with her father. Annette's jewelry art continues the family's over 160-year tradition, which began in 1860 with the jewelry store founded by Alexander Edvard Tillander in St. Petersburg.
At the young age of 16, Annette began her apprenticeship with her father, goldsmith Torbjörn Tillander, in his studio on Tehtaankatu in Helsinki. Torbjörn was Alexander's great-grandson.
At first, Annette followed her father's work, but very soon she started working for herself. Four years later, after Torbjörn Tillander opened his goldsmith shop in central Helsinki, Annette worked as a jewelry designer for the family business.
The path of a jewelry designer has arisen quite naturally from the life around him: inspired by the nature of his childhood on the island, his father and encounters with people, making things with his hands.
Annette's jewelry designs feature beautiful colored gemstones, pearls, and diamonds in recognizable gold, platinum, and silver jewelry. Annette's style has always been feminine, romantic, and classic, but at the same time wonderfully whimsical and bold. She also uses a lot of hand engraving in her jewelry.
Annette's customers often pass down through generations. The timeless style has been passed down from mother to daughter, and the tradition is increasingly being continued by their children. The jewelry Annette designs will match each other even after decades
Annette's connection to her father Torbjörn Tillander was close, and not only professionally. Annette says she was born with the artistic ability to design jewelry that speaks to customers. Artistry may be rooted in the Gallen-Kallela family.
Annette also has a unique ability to greet each customer with warmth and naturally understand their unspoken needs and feelings, and create jewelry that speaks to them.
Individual, unique jewelry, but equally Annette Tillander jewelry collections appeal to those who are looking for timeless and combinable pieces.
Annette's way of designing jewelry and meeting the customer is just as suitable for those looking for an engagement ring as it is for those looking for a piece of jewelry to remind them of life's meaningful moments.
Annette's jewelry designs are made in her own goldsmith's workshop in Helsinki, by the hands of top goldsmiths in their field. A love of craftsmanship and devotion to making unite Annette and the goldsmiths who approach their work with passion and uncompromising integrity.
“We speak the same language, where artistic vision and technical execution meet. There is a strong respect and trust in each other’s craftsmanship and work.”
For almost fifteen years I have been shooting all the images myself – product photos and mood photos. It is a passion for me and a way to tell the stories of jewelry. My eldest daughter Emmy does the layout, and together we create a visual world for my jewelry.
The emotional images reflect peace, beauty and timelessness – values that guide my work. Photography is a part of my creative process, as important as design.
My children and grandchildren are the models in my photos, but my lovely clients are also the models.
I have named several of my jewelry designs after my children and grandchildren – they are my inspiration and my heart. The artistry continues in my children, and I am very happy and proud of that. There is a piece of us in each image.
