Jewels On Tour: with photographer Heather Lighton
We sat down with talented photographer and MK collaborator, Heather Lighton, to hear about her recent American road trip. Traveling with a collection of Melanie's signature pieces, Heather embarked on a creative adventure, capturing the beauty of her jewellery amongst the diversely breathtaking landscapes of West Coast, USA.
Heather, tell us about your concept to take MK jewels on an international road trip recently?
Mel's work has such a sense of magic and wanderlust, I felt like they deserved to see the world and be seen in it.
What was the route you travelled and can you tell us more about the highlights of the areas you shot these photos?
Our journey began in LA with our friends Anna, Shelby, and their dog, Meadow. We travelled to Arizona, spending our first night outside Phoenix in a dark-sky community where starlit skies and a quiet, natural landscape made for a truly serene evening. Sedona was next, with its striking red rocks, canyons, and cacti-filled landscapes—a setting that beautifully echoed the natural elements of Mel’s gem and opal work.
We ventured onto Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley, where we woke up to a surreal sunrise and experienced all four seasons in a single morning. After exploring New Mexico’s Pueblo architecture and rich arts culture, we wrapped up our trip with a drive up the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping in places like Pebble Beach and ending with art-filled days in San Francisco. It was an adventure of stunning landscapes, new friendships, and endless inspiration.
Which is your favourite image and why?
Mel's Gold Opal Double Circle Ring on the purple cactus. This is special because my friend Anna spotted it just growing next to a gas station. I'd never seen such a vibrant plant growing in dust.
You often wear MK jewels, what is your most treasured piece, and which piece do you wear the most?
My Juicy Double Gem Earrings. I love that you can customise the colours and they always make me feel twinkly.
Can you share a memorable moment from your trip that had a lasting impact on you?
It would be the first time I saw the canyons of Sedona. I remember driving over a hill and then suddenly the world was all red rock. Magic!
We sat down with talented photographer and MK collaborator, Heather Lighton, to hear about her recent American road trip. Traveling with a collection of Melanie's signature pieces, Heather embarked on a creative adventure, capturing the beauty of her jewellery amongst the diversely breathtaking landscapes of West Coast, USA.
Heather, tell us about your concept to take MK jewels on an international road trip recently?
Mel's work has such a sense of magic and wanderlust, I felt like they deserved to see the world and be seen in it.
What was the route you travelled and can you tell us more about the highlights of the areas you shot these photos?
Our journey began in LA with our friends Anna, Shelby, and their dog, Meadow. We travelled to Arizona, spending our first night outside Phoenix in a dark-sky community where starlit skies and a quiet, natural landscape made for a truly serene evening. Sedona was next, with its striking red rocks, canyons, and cacti-filled landscapes—a setting that beautifully echoed the natural elements of Mel’s gem and opal work.
We ventured onto Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley, where we woke up to a surreal sunrise and experienced all four seasons in a single morning. After exploring New Mexico’s Pueblo architecture and rich arts culture, we wrapped up our trip with a drive up the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping in places like Pebble Beach and ending with art-filled days in San Francisco. It was an adventure of stunning landscapes, new friendships, and endless inspiration.
Which is your favourite image and why?
Mel's Gold Opal Double Circle Ring on the purple cactus. This is special because my friend Anna spotted it just growing next to a gas station. I'd never seen such a vibrant plant growing in dust.
You often wear MK jewels, what is your most treasured piece, and which piece do you wear the most?
My Juicy Double Gem Earrings. I love that you can customise the colours and they always make me feel twinkly.
Can you share a memorable moment from your trip that had a lasting impact on you?
It would be the first time I saw the canyons of Sedona. I remember driving over a hill and then suddenly the world was all red rock. Magic!