In the hushed basement of The Manila Peninsula Hotel, amidst a symphony of clinking brass and the soft glow of antique glass, sits Natalya Lagdameo. Her workshop is a haven of creative energy, where past, present, and future intertwine in the delicate dance of jewelry making. Known for her namesake line that blends traditional Filipino smithing techniques with modern sensibilities, Lagdameo crafts heirlooms that resonate with a timeless elegance.
Her pieces are not mere adornments; they are whispers of history, each crafted with a reverence for the past and a vision for the future. Take, for instance, her earrings fashioned from Spanish-era tamburin beads—ancient reliquaries reminiscent of rosaries—cascading like drops of water suspended between chalcedony. Another stunning piece features golden antique-style kalabasa beads, named for their pumpkin-like shape, hanging from a half-dome stud. Each element is carefully chosen, each detail a testament to her meticulous craftsmanship.
Lagdameo’s creative process is as captivating as her final pieces. She embraces the beauty of imperfection, the magic that unfolds when disparate fragments of the past are brought together to create something entirely new. “It’s a mess,” she admits with a smile, gesturing to the scattered jewels before her, “but that’s how it works.”
The origins of her passion for antique objects can be traced back to her childhood home, a 1934 structure filled with historical artifacts meticulously collected by her father, renowned antique dealer and furniture designer Buddy Lagdameo. Growing up surrounded by treasures from bygone eras, Lagdameo developed a deep appreciation for the stories embedded within each object. Her father’s vast collection of antique Philippine jewelry, particularly the giniling, a coiled brass bracelet traditionally worn in the Cordillera region, had a profound impact on her artistic journey.
The giniling, a symbol of wealth and protection, resonated deeply with Lagdameo, who saw in it a reflection of Filipina strength and resilience. “When my dad offered me five from his original collection, I realized that they were actually made with the Filipina in mind,” she shares. “They’re the correct size, the correct material… they suit us.” Her fascination with this traditional piece led her to create her own interpretation, a stack of 10 sleek, open brass bangles dipped in 22-karat gold sourced locally from small-scale suppliers.
Lagdameo’s commitment to sustainability and her deep connection to her heritage are evident in every aspect of her work. She chooses to collaborate with artisans in the Cordillera region, prioritizing their well-being and ensuring that their traditional crafts continue to thrive. Production for her jewelry is intricately woven into the rhythm of the agricultural cycles in the north, a testament to her respect for the land and the people who cultivate it.
There is a profound coherence to Lagdameo’s design philosophy, a sense of harmony between her respect for the past and her vision for the future. She creates jewelry that is not simply beautiful, but meaningful, imbued with the stories and values of her heritage. Her pieces are an embodiment of the interconnectedness of tradition and innovation, a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and the timeless allure of heirloom jewelry.
