The Slow Studio began as a desperate shortcut: a way to cut a thesis from 18,000 words to 14,000. A scholarship to London, a 5am shoot in Regent's Park, a train to Delhi with five pieces, and why we still make just one collection a year.

Every petal on the Taj Mahal's flowers is a separate piece of gemstone, cut thinner than a fingernail. Here's how that 400-year-old technique shrinks onto a 2cm earring, and how to judge marble inlay jewellery before you buy it, from anyone (including us).