+ A
A -
The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) 2017 returns this year at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center and brings together over 400 luxury brands of jewellery and fine watches. The expo runs till February 25 and features many popular international brands and promising local jewellery designers.
Suzanne Kalan, the founder of the renowned international brand of the same name, is well- known for putting a modern twist to traditional designs. Having over 28 years of experience in designing gold jewellery, Kalan developed the unique concept of cutting gemstones flat on the top and bottom to reveal a pave diamond panel behind the gemstone, giving it a new sparkle.
Her 'Fireworks' collection which marries scattered baguette diamonds with large custom-cut gemstones is her signature style and is revered by jewellery aficionados everywhere.
Qatar Tribune's Dipti Nair spoke to the designer during her visit to Doha to represent her brand in the DJWE 2017. Excerpts.
Q. Give us a little background; what drew you to jewellery making?
A. I was born in Lebanon with an Armenian family heritage, and I launched the fine jewellery brand 'Suzanne Kalan', 28 years ago. Creativity was encouraged during my childhood and at a young age I began watercolour painting, working with clay and sketching. My family travelled often and my trips around the world have inspired many of my designs.
My family has a long history in the jewellery industry. My father owned a jewellery store, and I grew up working closely with him. He taught me a lot about jewellery and design, but mostly he taught me how to run a business. Initially, I only designed for close friends and family. But a retail store approached me and asked me to produce a line of jewellery for them. I did and soon developed a loyal clientele that included department stores and jewellery chains.
What led you to develop your own brand?
There was a defining moment that prompted me to create my own brand.
One day, I was standing in a building waiting for the elevator. While I was waiting, I was looking into the window display of a store in the lobby. The owner of the store came out and asked me where I had gotten the jewellery I was wearing, and it just so happened that I was wearing my own designs. He placed an order right then and there. That moment changed my life forever and in 1988, I started my own company.
You come from a family of jewellers. Tell us about your family's involvement in jewellery making?
I have spent the last 28 years designing fine jewellery, and I have experience and education in different facets of the industry. My family has a long history in the business, and I learned a great deal from my father on jewellery design.
It was with the support of my family that we were able to launch the company. My husband is a diamond-setter and works with my daughter, Patile, to manage production. Patile also designs the 14-karat line, 'Kalan' By Suzanne Kalan. The collection targets a younger audience and features colourful handpicked semi-precious gemstones that are accented with diamonds.
My entire family is involved in the company. Most recently, my son Kami joined the team. He's working on managing our website and graphic design for the brand.
What other roles do you handle?
I have many roles within my international brand. I'm the president of the company, besides being the designer. Between trade shows, trunk shows and press events, my schedule can be very busy. My other roles include being a mother and wife.
Let's talk about your designs, what style do you go for?
I have always had an appreciation for things that are perfectly imperfect. I implement long-established techniques, while introducing unusual concepts that challenge the rules of jewellery design. My collections are timeless, modern and edgy.
How would you describe the women who wear your jewellery?
I have had the pleasure of meeting so many of my customers all around the world and they are all so special and different in their own way. One thing they all have in common is their appreciation for something unique.
What do you draw inspiration from for your designs?
I find inspiration all around me, especially in nature and during my travels around the world. Whether it's the colour of the sun, or the texture of sand, there are a lot of different aspects that influence my designs.
What materials do you work with?
I work in 18-karat white, rose and yellow gold. I travel the world looking for the best gemstones for my line. I really love emeralds and sapphires this season and baguette diamonds of course.
What is the process in creating these pieces?
When I am getting ready to design a new collection, I first start by touching, feeling and playing with the stone I'd like to use. One day, I had a couple of baguette diamonds at my desk, and I started to think of all the traditional ways baguette diamonds have been used in jewellery. I then started to map them out on my desk, and found that scattered settings would make the diamonds more interesting and that's how I started the 'Fireworks' collection.
What are some new pieces you are working on?
My signature line has really taken off, and I am continuously expanding the collection. I am currently working on new one-of-a-kind pieces featuring pink sapphires.
What can people expect from you at the DJWE 2017?
They can expect a lot of new pieces. I will be bringing statement sets including beautiful necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. I will also be showcasing my 'Evil Eye Fireworks' collection, which features my signature use of baguette diamonds.
What's next in line for you?
After the Doha exhibition, we will be going to Jewellery Arabia Kuwait and Jewellery Salon (Jeddah and Riyadh). My family will be coming with me, and we're looking forward to it.
