Today we’d like to introduce you to halleh amiralai.

Hi halleh, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In 2006, I found myself at a crossroads in life. I had been working in the fashion industry, in the wholesale, ready-to-wear business at Chanel. With a dream of becoming a yoga instructor, I briefly left New York City for India.

While there, I visited The Gem Palace – one of the most respected jewelry houses in Jaipur – and immediately knew that I wanted to enter the world of jewelry.

Upon my return home, I began taking local jewelry-making classes and then traveled to India again to learn the craft of goldsmithing. During my month in India, I learned how to be a bench jeweler.

In 2010, I launched my first collection, which was stocked by retailers like Net-a-Porter, The WEBSTER, Just One Eye, and others. As my business grew organically, so did my designs and my production practice.

My style is more conversational. I’m playful, toned-down, and relaxed, and my designs reflect that sensibility. I need to be comfortable. When I’m comfortable, I feel the most confident. I want you to feel the same way when you wear my creations.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There are always obstacles and challenges when dealing with any kind of design innovation. For example material sourcing and ethical concerns are always at the forefront of production. Sourcing materials such as gold, diamonds, and gemstones can be fraught with ethical issues, including conflict minerals and poor labor practices. As sensible designers we need to be aware of how mining for precious metals and stones can lead to environmental degradation, habitat destruction, and pollution. These are issues that are at the core of what we like to keep an eye on.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love to design fine jewelry that is sophisticated and timeless. We are known for keeping our designs timeless whilst keeping up with and anticipating fashion trends which require constant innovation and creativity.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The Covid-19 showed us that supply chain issues and delays can be affected due to lack of manpower. This also sent the cost of goods and labor much higher to which we had to adjust our pricing to.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.halleh.com
• Instagram: HallehJewelry
• Facebook: HallehJewelry
• Linkedin: Halleh Amiralai
• Twitter: HallehJewelry

Image Credits
Photography: Gail Job