“The Cosmic Garden” draws inspiration from the Persian Char-bagh garden, symbolising the cosmos. How did you translate this ancient concept into the modern, wearable art that defines this collection?

Through my research, I was drawn to the history of these gardens — how their structure was so delicately connected to their symbolism. Something that stuck with me is how these lush gardens with four quadrants and four walls were typically situated in arid deserts. In these confined spaces, nature would flourish, flowers would bloom, and water would flow.

I also learned how these gardens were traditionally represented so literally and symmetrically — from their physical presence in Iran, to ancient manuscripts, and Persian rugs. The same essence of geometry and symmetry echoed across ancient Persian art, even in crafts like Khatamkari, which carried a similar symbolic meaning.

With this context, I was fascinated by how traditional Persian design expressed cosmic balance through structure. Beyond literal representation, I reflected on how that symbolism connects to me today — how the truths my ancestors expressed centuries ago have reached me in London.

I thought about how cosmic unity goes beyond what meets the eye. These gardens were ordered, but nature can never be perfectly controlled. Two seemingly identical flowers have differences; two trees grow uniquely. I resonated with the idea that imperfection and disorder are also part of cosmic harmony — everything is interconnected.

So I incorporated asymmetry and organic forms into my designs — vines, stars, and flower motifs inspired by Persian art. My Source is Eternal Charm Necklace, for example, features flowing boteh (paisley) charms symbolising eternity — an embodiment of how everything, from the garden to the cosmos to our spirits, flows from an eternal source.

You’ve spoken about jewellery as a ‘portal’ that connects us to heritage and truth. How has your British-Iranian identity shaped the storytelling behind Telah and this new collection?

Growing up in London, gold jewellery was always a reminder of Iran for me, even when Iran felt distant from my identity. The first time I visited as a toddler, my grandparents gifted me a gold bracelet engraved with my name in Farsi — bought from the gold bazaar near Tabriz, my father’s hometown.

Through the years, that bracelet became more than an accessory. It carried a familiar warmth — a quiet familiarity that transcended distance. Even when I felt disconnected from my roots, I’d feel that presence through jewellery. It’s why I describe jewellery as a portal — when crafted with intention and symbolism, it can transport us to something deep within.

When I began designing, symbolism naturally became central. It was a calling rooted in my experience with those heirlooms — something I wanted to share with other women.

Nature was also deeply woven into my upbringing — from Nowruz (the Persian new year) to pomegranates eaten at the winter solstice for abundance. My childhood home was filled with Persian rugs adorned with floral geometry, and poetry books illustrated with trees and gardens. That intentional connection to nature became part of my spirit, shaping how I tell stories through Telah.

Each piece in the collection carries deep symbolism — from pomegranates to doves and the paisley motif. How do you balance aesthetic beauty with these layers of meaning in your designs?

Having always been inspired by ancient Persian art, I see aesthetic beauty and symbolism as deeply intertwined. To me, true beauty is rooted in meaning — when a symbol’s essence is conveyed authentically through its form.

My design process is intuitive. Each piece goes through several iterations until the symbolism feels right — until it speaks through the form. That moment feels like truth, which I believe is the heart of aesthetic beauty.

Telah’s pieces are handcrafted in the UK using recycled silver and 24-carat gold. Why is sustainability important to you, and how does it intersect with your vision of heritage preservation?

Sustainability is crucial to me — it’s about honouring the ecosystem we’re part of and being conscious of future generations. In Iranian culture, jewellery endures; it’s passed down through time, carrying stories and memory.

The truths I channel into this collection have flowed through centuries of ancient art and tradition. That sense of continuity resonates deeply with the continuity of the planet itself.

Using recycled silver allows me to honour what already exists — an act of preservation and a reminder that creation and conservation can coexist in harmony.

As a female founder in the jewellery space, what has your journey taught you about leading with authenticity and purpose — and what advice would you give to other women building creative brands?

Whilst I’m still constantly learning, I’d tell other women building creative brands to believe in themselves and to keep moving forward. Self-doubt and fear will come up — but you can’t let them lead. It’s essential to be guided by your belief in your purpose, even when that voice feels quiet.

There’s a Persian poem that’s brought me comfort: “As you walk on the way, the way appears.” It’s about trusting the unknown and moving toward your purpose.

If you feel called to create something, take one step — then another, and another. Even if your vision feels distant or overwhelming, the path unfolds as you walk.

One truth embodied in my collection is “The Bloom is Inevitable.” Flowers bloom and spring returns, even after the coldest winters. We are part of nature, and we carry that truth within us. My hope is that Telah becomes a space where women can embrace their truth — whether that’s their creative calling or their heritage.

Explore the new collection here www.telah.net