Individual jewelry pieces embody uniqueness and elegance. Each custom order gives birth to a masterpiece, accentuating the distinctiveness of style and taste, transforming them into not just ornaments but unique works of art. Every gemstone encapsulates stories and emotions, making these pieces an integral part of inner beauty and value. Exploring why investing in jewelry is a wise choice for the future and what makes Velman Jewelers unique, gemologist, diamond and precious gem expert, and CEO of the international jewelry atelier Velman, Katerina Polyakova, shares her insights.
Tell us about the founder and visionary inspiration, Daria Veleva?
Daria Veleva is the heart of Velman Jewelers. An artist by education. A certified gemologist, a designer. She is constantly developing, improving her knowledge and qualifications at the leading global schools GIA, EG, Photography and Visual Design Course, Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti (NABA).
How did you come to the realization that you wanted to create jewelry?
Many years ago, a close friend gave me a ring adorned with precious stones. Every time I wore that ring, I was reminded of the dear person who gave it to me. From that moment on, I understood that jewelry is a way to keep memories alive!
That’s when I started crafting personalized pieces for my loved ones, and eventually, it led to the idea of establishing my own brand and business.
What is the concept behind your jewelry atelier, and what sets it apart?
At present, we have our own production facility with a team of attentive jewelers, gemologists, managers, designers, and 3D illustrators. Each client receives an individualized approach, as we strive to bring their most cherished desires to life. Our goal is to make luxury more accessible.
We specialize in the restoration of precious jewelry, often family heirlooms passed down through generations. We handle stone replacements, create meaningful engravings inside the pieces, and assist in preserving significant dates or beloved names in memory.
It’s important to note that we prioritize environmental sustainability. We practice upcycling, a form of recycling that transforms raw materials into more valuable items. We repurpose our clients’ old jewelry, giving it new life.
All of this is done with great love and passion, undoubtedly setting us apart from the thousands of mass-market items.
What unique desires do your clients bring to you?
Increasingly, our clients are seeking jewelry that is not only stylish and beautiful, but also serves as an investment. We carefully select stones with the best characteristics, keeping within the client’s budget.
Typically, clients share their preferences for a specific type of stone, and we delve into understanding what exactly captivates them about it. We aim to connect with the individual and present them with something they’ll fall in love with at first sight.
We also provide detailed descriptions and explanations of the advantages and distinctive features of each mineral, guiding clients on what to pay attention to.
Furthermore, we offer consultations on current trends in the world of jewelry, introducing concepts like fine jewelry, fast jewelry, easy-to-wear pieces, as well as high jewelry.
This is because emotions sometimes outweigh the material and factual value of jewelry, significantly influencing trends in the jewelry industry and the final choices made by clients.
There’s no need to fear purchasing an item at an elevated price. Such prices don’t exist. The cost is always justified as it represents an investment that retains its value. After all, it’s an investment that doesn’t depreciate.
Is the purity of a gemstone a factor in its investment value?
The purity of a diamond is one of the most crucial indicators of its value. The cleaner the stone, the more valuable it becomes. Additionally, the weight of the stone plays a significant role. Diamond certification starts from 0.3 carats.
Investing money can be done in various avenues such as securities, real estate, as well as some colored gemstones and diamonds.
Investing in diamonds is relatively straightforward; their cost is clear and transparent, with pricing data published in the Rapaport price list. Consequently, their value is accessible to everyone, making it easy to compare and analyze. However, colored diamonds, in particular, are gaining special appeal for investment due to their:
- Immense rarity (only 0.001% of mined diamonds are colored).
- Limited number of deposits.
- Low volatility (stable prices).
- Since 2000, the value of colored diamonds has increased by 280%.
The same can be said for other colored gemstones; there is no exact price list for them, so their valuation depends on demand and popularity. As mentioned earlier, the demand for them has been growing in recent years.
Discuss the creative process. How does it unfold?
We start by considering the desires and ideas of the client. Then, we assist in selecting a design that enhances the final piece. For instance, if there are multiple stones in the piece, it’s crucial for the side stones to proportionally complement the central one, revealing its color and brilliance while harmonizing with its cut. It’s also important to strike a balance so that the end product isn’t overloaded or, conversely, too “empty.”
The visual appearance of the future piece is finalized during the 3D modeling stage, allowing for adjustments and a preview of how the finished jewelry will look.
Clients often opt for personalized accessories featuring letters – signet rings, pendants, bracelets – offering a meaningful gift option.
We also carefully craft the design to fit within the client’s budget while ensuring maximum value for them.
Eternity Ring
The diamond-studded band symbolizes eternity and the infinite strength of your love!
This is the perfect foundational ring for everyday wear and a sleek option as an engagement ring. The accessory seamlessly complements any other pieces of jewelry.
Velman Personalized Signet Ring
Our brand’s business card, crafted with our signature design. Instead of the “V,” you can choose any other letter or symbol!
A personalized accessory with a letter – a gift with special meaning. The versatile design suits every woman and harmonizes effortlessly with other rings.
Enhanced by pavé-set natural diamonds, the ring exudes a striking and vibrant allure. This ring is comfortable for everyday wear and is available in your choice of gold color and carat.
Velman Enchanting Jewelry Boxes
Each jewelry box is meticulously handcrafted, with attention given to every detail: convenient compartmentalization, the perfect size for each item, two tiers for storing various pieces, and soft, delicate suede lining… they are perfect.
- Exterior Material: Cream-colored suede
- Interior Material: Cream-colored suede
- Handle: Genuine malachite
- Box Size: 320х220х90mm.
Such a jewelry box will seamlessly integrate into your interior and become a secure home for your cherished pieces!