Small Talk GRAZIELA KAUFMAN

The Brazilian designer on gemstones, family and supporting animal welfare organisations

What’s the inspiration behind your jewellery designs?

My jewellery is inspired by the world around me. I’m Brazilian, so I grew up surrounded by nature, colour, beauty, carnivals and energy.

Which is your favourite Graziela jewellery piece? That’s easy! Twenty‑five years ago, I designed a pavé cross that was blessed by Pope John Paul II. I truly believe it protects me from all negative energy.

What have you been working on recently?

The Color Rhodium Amazon collection and the Renaissance Pearl collection. The former is an expansion of a few pieces I designed in 2020. They come in 18‑karat gold, which is coated in the most beautiful rhodium. My Renaissance Pearl collection mixes the power of pearls with modern designs. It’s fresh, wearable and innovative.

What kind of woman wears Graziela?

She is confident and elegant, with an edge. She’s a mother, a professional and she’s independent. She loves to sparkle and wear pieces with personality.

How did you become a jewellery designer?

It’s in my blood. My grandfather was an Italian jeweller from Livorno, Tuscany, and he taught me about craftsmanship, attention to detail and comfort.

What’s your first memory of jewellery?

My grandma’s twisted Italian bangles.

What’s been your biggest professional achievement to date?

I should say when I got stocked in luxury fashion retailer Neiman Marcus six years ago, or when I won my first design award. The truth is my biggest achievement comes when women like me or you choose to wear my jewellery.

If you could design jewellery for anyone, who would it be? Coco Chanel.

If you weren’t a jeweller, what would you be?

A vet. I hope to own an animal sanctuary one day.

Tell us about your animal rights work.

I feel extremely connected to animals and feel that it’s my duty to do everything in my power to end animal abuse. I work to expose puppy mills, and designed a collection named Pawsitivity, of which 30 per cent of all sales goes to different animal rights organisations. Also, 10 to 15 per cent of all revenues from Graziela go to animal rescues.