MUSE COUTURE CONVOS: Silvia Furmanovich

Welcome to "Muse COUTURE Convos," where we journey into the world of exceptional fine jewelry with the talented designers showcasing their fabulous collections at the annual COUTURE Show in Las Vegas. In this exciting series, we explore the inspirations, craftsmanship, and stories behind some of the most stunning collections in the industry. Join us as we chat with these visionary artists, unveiling the passion and creativity that drive their work. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a jewelry enthusiast, our conversations promise to inspire and enchant, bringing you closer to the heart of jewelry.

A creative alchemist based in Brazil, Silvia Furmanovich celebrates global cultures through her artful designs. Born into a family of Italian goldsmiths, she founded her business in 1998, opening her first boutique in 2009. Her creations blend found artifacts, traditional techniques, and various materials to craft timeless, one-of-a-kind wearable art.

Tell us what you’re focusing on or debuting at COUTURE this year. 

The new collection, Quintessence, is all about the process and the symbolism of alchemy. I always use marquetry, but now we are doing marquetry with only one color. We also are using miniature painting with all of these beautiful scenes of the sun and moon. The collection is all about the five elements: the representation of air, fire, water, Earth, and aether. And, at the back of the earrings, we are putting phrases from Ancient Hermetic texts.

Which piece from the collection you’re showing at COUTURE best captures your essence as a designer?

I am launching the horse mane weaving. It's my favorite technique. I went to Colombia last year and to Chile this year to learn more about this technique, which spans four generations of women in a small, small city. So, I went there in Chile three months ago, and I'm working with them and customizing my own designs. We are making amazing things together. I have about 12 pieces using horse mane weaving. It's my favorite because it's very, very delicate, well-designed, and it's very lightweight.

If you had to describe what prepping for COUTURE feels like, how would you describe it?

Everybody's excited in the office! This year, we are customizing our booth. Everything is going to be gold and navy blue velvet with stars to symbolize the sky. In the past, the palette was beige or something very, very light. Now it's dark, but a good dark! My team is very excited. I am very excited. I think it's going to be a very good show. 

Thoughts on Vegas?

Vegas is Vegas! Things that happen there only happen there. Everybody gets immersed in the hotel for a week, and it is like the world doesn't exist outside. I always meet nice people.

Now, onto some general jewelry questions! If you could only work with one gemstone for the rest of your career, which would it be and why?

Emeralds. I love the hue of green in emeralds, mainly the emeralds from Colombia. I love the light that emanates from emeralds.

Where is your favorite place to design?

I simply adore Japan. Japan has generations of craftsmanship in all areas, like lacquerware and fabric–in everything! They do everything with perfection. I get very inspired when I go there.

What is one thing you hope people will remember about your jewelry 100 years from now?

Maybe I'll be remembered for the colors, for the joy, for the diversity.