Last week I sat down to interview sisters Gabriela and Teresita Artigas; one of my favorite Los Angeles based jewelry lines Gabriela Artigas. I also got a sneak peek at their new Autumn/Winter 2014 collection (3rd Image) coming soon.
Q&A
When and why did you decide to start to create Gabriela Artigas?
Everything started unplanned, Gabriela was 21 leaving in Mexico City when my mom needed a necklace for a wedding. She didn't wanted to wear her usual jewels because the city wasn't at it's safest. We bought some gems and Gabriela made our mom her first coral and silver necklace. They both came to LA for a little holiday and a recognized buyer bought that same necklace for my mom's neck, and we knew something was about to start.
Tere has always been a sales pro, she would sell everything to her friends, even my clothing when I was away. She enjoys the experience and the thrill to sell, that's why we make a great team and started running the company together since 2008.
How would you describe your own personal style?
It's hard to describe one's personal style or point out one characteristic, I just love to be well dressed.
What was the first piece of jewelry you ever made? How have your designs evolved?
The first piece was a toothbrush cuff and the designs evolved as we did too. We grew together because you start figuring things out, understanding how materials work and how you can make things better.
Are there certain materials you gravitate toward?
Solid gold.
What’s your most treasured piece of Jewelry?
It's hard to say because I treasure every single piece we have made.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Architecture, contrast of textures and colors, lines, symmetry. The line has pieces that range from delicate and feminine to bold and forceful. We consider that every one has these emotions and wanted to represent them through our jewelry.
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