Margaret Foley's favourite things

Margaret Foley of Hartfield Jewellers. Photo / Babiche Martens.

Margaret Foley of Hartfield Jewellers appreciates classic design from the likes of Chanel and Pasquale Bruni.

Travelling to the world's largest watch and jewellery fair, Baselworld in Switzerland, nearly every year, Margaret Foley sees all the latest looks before they hit stores. She picks the sautoir as the latest investment piece - it's a long necklace that can be worn at different lengths, or layered with shorter necklaces and personalised with charms, she says.

The co-owner of Hartfield Jewellers travels to Europe each year to source for the boutique she co-owns with husband Brian Hough. Specialising in fine jewellery from European brands Chaumet and Pasquale Bruni, the store has been a Parnell Rd institution for more than 30 years. Her daughter works alongside them.

"My family is my passion, along with my passion for jewellery," Margaret says. "I am very proud that my daughter, Rebecca, works with me and of course my lovely husband, Brian. Both are lawyers which provides a balance for my creative temperament."

She is currently in planning mode for the "Celebrate the Art of Living" weekend at Huka Lodge in July. Alongside wellbeing, wine and cooking presentations, Margaret will showcase her Chaumet and Pasquale Bruni collections - the brands are sending over tiaras and other showpieces for the occasion.

"The architecture and design of the Alan Pye Cottage at Huka Lodge where we will be staying and displaying the jewellery would be my dream for a holiday home," Margaret says, although the couple's waterfront apartment in Kohimarama has a holiday feel of its own.

"I love the view from my apartment," she says. "No matter where I've been travelling in the world, my 'second home' Milan or the Ritz in Paris, I am always grateful to come home to the restorative sight of Rangitoto Island and the yachts just off my balcony."

MY FAVOURITE THINGS

Painting by Frances Hodgkins. Photo / Babiche Martens.

1. Painting by Frances Hodgkins

I have a passion for art and am drawn to beautiful things - but not always for acquisition, more for appreciation. My two favourite artists are Evelyn Page and Frances Hodgkins.

My new Vitamix. Photo / Babiche Martens.

2. My new Vitamix

My favourite homeware item is my new Vitamix, recommended by my personal trainer Ema. It has launched me on a juicing craze. Next step is to work out how to cook soup in it this winter.

Chaumet Rose candles. Photo / Babiche Martens.

3. Chaumet Rose candles

I love to burn scented candles at home and at work. The perfume of the Chaumet Rose candles we burn at Hartfield and give to customers instantly transports me back to Chaumet's Place Vendome, Paris boutique.

2.55 Chanel Flap Bag. Photo / Babiche Martens.

4. 2.55 Chanel Flap Bag

I love Chanel design - clothes, shoes and bags. I've worn Chanel for many years. The classic design and quality fabrics always give an elegant backdrop to jewellery. I do wear a lot of black. The classic 2.55 Chanel flap bag takes me everywhere and is so hard-wearing.

Pasquale Bruni Ring. Photo / Babiche Martens.

5. Pasquale Bruni Ring

Favourite piece of jewellery? Too hard to choose one. Because of my long and close friendship with the Bruni family it would have to be something from Pasquale Bruni - feminine with hidden secret details in the design, like small hand-carved hearts, moons and stars, to give to someone who is your world.

The latest Bon Ton Collection featuring Pasquale Bruni's iconic five pointed flower is my current favourite. The sautoirs in Bon Ton are also favourites, but I have sold every one I had.

- VIVA