We were lucky to catch up with Sona Baloyan recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sona , thanks for joining us today. Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.
In reflecting upon the question of what my parents did right and how it has shaped my life and career, I am reminded of a profound journey marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to family. Born during a period of economic transition in Armenia, my parents faced the challenge of navigating a shifting landscape. In their early 20s, my father, an entrepreneur in the soda-pop manufacturing industry, and my mother, a master’s student in Architecture, made the courageous decision to immigrate to a new country in pursuit of a better life.
The act of immigrating, often overlooked in today’s context, was a monumental undertaking that required not only adapting to a foreign culture but also overcoming linguistic barriers. Imagine the responsibility and fortitude it takes to uproot one’s life, all while caring for a young child and entering a society where accents could invite ridicule. Witnessing my parents navigate these challenges left an indelible mark on my character.
From the onset of our journey in America, I observed my parents’ daily struggles, their relentless pursuit of goals, and their eventual triumphs. My mother, during those early days, would walk me to school, juggle work responsibilities, and manage household duties. Her dedication to my education, despite language barriers, is a testament to her commitment. Meanwhile, my father, often working multiple jobs and relying on public transportation, exhibited unparalleled work ethic and determination.
Our evenings were filled with collaborative efforts – completing homework, sharing household responsibilities, and cherishing moments of family time. As the years passed, their perseverance bore fruit, and our circumstances evolved. Today, when I contemplate our journey, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the remarkable individuals my parents are.
Their tenacity, perseverance, and ability to overcome adversity were all driven by an abundance of love – for themselves, for me, and for life itself. Their example has instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience, and the transformative power of unwavering dedication. In both my personal and professional pursuits, I carry the lessons learned from their remarkable journey, shaping my approach to challenges with a spirit of optimism and determination.
Sona , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
As an entrepreneur driven by a lifelong aspiration to establish my own business, I bring a unique blend of creativity and a rich familial heritage in jewelry craftsmanship to the forefront. Raised as an only child, I spent my formative years exploring my talents, hobbies, and interests, developing a deep affinity for art, painting, and esoteric philosophy.
While my early inclinations led me towards a career in the arts, a pragmatic understanding of the challenges faced by the ‘starving artist’ archetype, coupled with my parents’ tireless efforts to build a life in America, prompted me to seek a career that offered stability. Naturally excelling academically with a photographic memory, I pursued a degree in psychology with a business minor, eventually venturing into a brief yet unfulfilling stint in corporate finance.
It was during my apprenticeship at a wealth management firm that I experienced a transformative moment. Copying trades for clients with substantial portfolios, I witnessed a significant return on my investments. Recognizing the power of calculated boldness, I took the leap into entrepreneurship, spurred by the belief that Fortune Favours the BOLD.
The journey into entrepreneurship began as a thought, spoken into existence, and materialized into the creation of AuMaro Gems Jewelry. Rooted in a rich family history of jewelers, including my father, my uncle, my late grandfather, and my mother, though not a jeweler, she is an excellent architect with impressive artistic abilities. I sought to merge my creative abilities with a familiar craft. The brand name, AuMaro, signifies the chemical symbol for Gold (Au) and my name, Sona, which means GOLD in Hindu. This fusion reflects not only my familial ties to the world of jewelry but also my significant connection to Hindu culture and Vedic astrology.
AuMaro Gems Jewelry exudes a distinct allure, marked by vibrant natural gemstones, original designs, intricate craftsmanship, and the crowning glory – my exclusive Alchemy Clasps. These clasps, crafted over two years with unwavering dedication to design and engineering, stand as unparalleled accessories captivating admirers globally. Notably, “The Blessing Hand Clasp,” inspired by the Hasta Nakshatra in Vedic astrology, symbolizes the inherent power within our hands, reflecting the Hasta talisman’s protection, power, and acquisitions. Proudly owning this inventive design, the collection extends to include the Aumarogems Lobster Claw and the enchanting Magic Horseshoe charm, featuring esoteric scripture and the Mercury symbol, bridging human consciousness with universal intelligence. The scripture on the Magic Horseshoe charm, “So Mote It Be,” echoes an ancient esoteric saying from occult traditions, signifying the completion of a ritual. Embedded in mystical practices, the phrase emphasizes the transformative power of spoken words, affirming that verbalized intentions set energies in motion for desired outcomes. Engraved on the charm, it serves as a perpetual affirmation, transforming the accessory into a charged talisman carrying the wearer’s aspirations. Coupled with esoteric symbolism and the representation of Mercury, the charm becomes a conduit, connecting earthly desires with celestial forces. This charm serves as both an aesthetic masterpiece and a vessel for manifesting aspirations through sacred symbolism.
In AuMaro Gems Jewelry, each piece narrates a profound story, embodying symbolism and serving as a channel for intention. The collection transcends mere accessories, offering a narrative rich in meaning and an embodiment of energy, encapsulated by the bound symbolism within every piece.
My proudest achievement is not only the success of my business but the relentless pursuit of my vision. The ability to navigate unforeseen challenges, embrace the looped journey towards my goals, and cherish the process of creation and interaction with those who appreciate my work defines my sense of pride. AuMaro Gems Jewelry stands as a testament to my unwavering commitment to both personal and professional fulfillment, enveloped in a brand that celebrates the interconnectedness of life, nature, and the shared human experience.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Undoubtedly, my robust character and unwavering commitment to showcasing my unique individuality have played pivotal roles. I refuse to be defined by others; instead, I shape my identity through my actions, energy, and creations. The consistency of my character is a trait I hold in high regard, mirroring my appreciation for authenticity in others. I firmly believe that the greatest strength lies in being true to oneself—sharing one’s authentic self without reservation. Authenticity resonates universally, garnering high regard and recognition.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
Certainly, I have been greatly influenced by several resources that have shaped my management and entrepreneurial thinking. Among them, the works of Jen Sincero stand out prominently. Her bestselling novels, “You Are A Badass” and “You Are A Badass At Making Money,” have been transformative for me. Meeting her in person was a tremendous honor, and I even had the privilege of gifting her a custom Aumarogems creation. Reading her books not only provided the mental shifts necessary to operate a business aligned with my beliefs but also served as a source of inspiration and motivation during challenging times. Whenever I find myself veering off course or succumbing to negative thoughts, immersing myself in Ms. Sincero’s incredible novels becomes a powerful tool to realign my focus and drive towards my goals.
Additionally, I hold a deep appreciation for the philosophies of Neville Goddard and Abraham Hicks. Embracing the belief in the unseen but intensely felt, their teachings resonate with me on a significant level. I value their emphasis on confidence and personal empowerment, highlighting the notion that we are the architects of our reality. According to their philosophies, we wield the power to shape our circumstances, be it success or hardship, and this understanding has been instrumental in my approach to life and entrepreneurship. The recognition of our role as operant powers in our reality underscores the transformative impact of our thoughts and beliefs on the world we create for ourselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aumarogems.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aumarogems/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aumarogems/
Image Credits
@natashawilson.co @queennyakimofficial @zeyi.moise @wear_thefuture @sky.aurelia @reinhardtkenneth @alenciajanae @christopherbrownphotos