With a longstanding interest in the fine arts, Angélique Knafo has studied art history, business, photography, gemology, French cuisine, and Japanese language, but she has always had a particular fascination with jewelry. Now a jewelry designer in Paris, her collection, Angélique de Paris, has been noted by Vogue, Marie Claire, Elle, Oprah, and Millennium for its artistic appeal and place in contemporary fashion.
I have always been enamored with jewels and am somewhat of a magpie that gravitates towards sparkly things. My designs are focused on what I would enjoy wearing, and are accompanied by the desire that other women will share my indulgence. The cut of the stone, the color, and the sensory experience of wearing jewelry all serve the common goal of embellishing the woman. While the natural gemstones act as the initial inspiration, my artistic background, world travels, and aesthetic instinct help create the final piece, which is a highly personalized work of wearable art. Exacting attention to detail, meticulous craftsmanship, and an incomparably luxurious finish are the signature qualities I incorporate into my collection.
After graduating from TASIS England, there was no question in my mind that Paris would be my next destination. Being a French speaker and an amoureuse of all things French, Paris was my calling. I obtained a double degree at the American University in Paris in International Business and Art History. Concomitant with my university studies, I completed a degree in French Cuisine at the Cordon Bleu, a gemology degree at The Institut d'Etudes Supérieures des Arts, and photography classes at Parson's School of Design Paris. I also completed an MBA with a specialization in Japanese language. The myriad of opportunities in Paris to master my diverse interests was the most gratifying experience. The rich and intense exposure of so much culture created a patchwork of experiences that is part of everything that I create.
At enjoyed my time at the school. Being in close proximity to the culture and energy of London was the highlight of my studies. I took the train every weekend to get my art fix - visiting museums and auction previews at Christie's and Sotheby's, going to shows, and immersing myself in the city. Those were extraordinary moments in an extraordinary setting for a young girl from Pennsylvania! They helped pave the path for my life-long love of art.
I have a few, but the one I really like and live by is "The most important relationship you have in your life is the one that you have with yourself." You are your one and only true companion throughout life's journey, and you must love and take care of yourself mind, body, and soul. Playing sports, eating healthily, being outdoors, living life to its fullest, giving back, and striving to be a good person all play into this philosophy of earthly happiness.
My father, Maurice, taught me my work ethic and stressed the importance of education, responsibility, and hard work. He instilled in me the power and the abundance of confidence necessary to be a strong and independent woman. He taught me to keep my eyes open for opportunities or to create them myself. Everything was possible in his eyes.
The jewelry industry has gone through revolutionary changes in the past 40 to 50 years. Excluding bridal sales, jewelry has become a self-purchase item for women who now have tremendous buying power. Jewelry sales used to be limited to religious jewelry, a strand of pearls, and wedding bands. A gradual shift occurred as women started investing in and purchasing their own jewelry, and, consequently, collecting a wardrobe of jewels to match their many moods and outfits! That is precisely where my brand has come in with a refreshing and unprecedented combination of high fashion and fine jewelry.
Jewelry is an art form that reflects the beauty of the wearer and the uniqueness of natural gems. Designing is an innate and organic procedure that should come naturally to produce the most captivating results. Understanding the history of jewelry design and delving into the different époques such as Edwardian, Art Deco, and Mid-Century helps designers understand their place in history and what they can do to contribute to an opulent and very rewarding métier.
This article first appeared in the TASIS England Today magazine, Autumn 2013 issue.