ALEXANDRA MATIAS

Did you grow up in Portugal? Where and who was your most significant influence as a teenager? 

 

I grew up in Portugal, in the historic city of Lisbon, where I enjoy living. I was in a family of four women, my mother and two younger sisters. All of us were fascinated by jewellery. 

Later, my relationship with jewellery evolved when my godmother introduced me to the world of antique jewellery. We spent entire afternoons looking at the details and the lustrous jewels. That's how my enthusiasm for this wondrous world developed.

 

Why did you qualify as a jewellery appraiser, and might you have chosen another path?

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I have always been passionate about gemstones. I needed to know more about the world of gemology and jewellery to understand it better. I decided to take the gemology and official appraiser course, and my passion for gemstones became my main activity.

I also completed an MBA at university, which has proved very useful in developing my business.

I don't think I could have chosen any other path. I like what I do. It's a privilege.

 

Who do you most admire as a jeweller and jewellery designer?

 

Of the many fabulous designers and jewellers in the world, Verdura, Belperron, and Joel Arthur Rosenthal "JAR" are the three I most admire.

Duke Fulco di Verdura's jewels are original works of art whose recognition continues today. There are several iconic pieces, including the famous Wing brooch with pink topaz and diamonds that Joan Fontaine used in Hitchcock's film Suspicion in 1941.

Susana Belperron was the first woman to distinguish herself as a jeweller in the 19th century. Her jewellery was so unique that she refused to sign it as she claimed, "My style is my signature". In an extraordinary auction in 1987, 16 magnificent pieces of her work were sold, which belonged to the private collection of one of her great patrons, the Duchess of Windsor.

JAR is a contemporary jeweller discreetly located at 7 Place Vendôme in Paris. His pieces are unique and meticulously made, never exceeding 70 articles per year. Known for being very creative, he uses unusual colours and materials. JAR transfers the beauty of nature to jewellery like no one else. My favourite piece is his Parrot Tulip bracelet, designed to wrap around the wrist with its petals studded with diamonds and green garnets.

 

 

How would you describe your jewellery gallery offer and taste?

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The gallery is a sophisticated and intimate space on the iconic Rua Castilho.

We have a selection of jewellery and watches distinguished by their authenticity and value, carefully chosen by our experts. We usually have signed pieces from the most famous brands and authors, such as Cartier, Boucheron, Bulgari, Chopard, Tiffany, Van Cleef & Arpels and fine watchmaking, such as Rolex or Patek Philippe. Items are sold of exceptional quality, in their original condition or restored, through a dedicated and personalized service. 

We also have jewellery and pieces by Portuguese authors, with Hugo Madureira's jewellery and Beatriz Horta Correia's artwork currently on display.

 

 

Do you think Portugal presents good opportunities for property development and renovation today by those wishing to invest?

 

We are experiencing increased foreign investment in Portugal, especially in the real estate sector. We have many reasons to believe that the time is right to do so, as we live in a booming business environment and have an excellent climate and people.

Even in the complicated environment we see worldwide, I believe that Portugal is still a safe country, and this is the main criterion used to choose the country where you want to live.

 

 

Any hot tips for foreigners visiting or wanting to settle in Lisbon?

 

Come with time to calmly enjoy the touristic, historical and cultural attractions that Lisbon has to offer. Discover the unique details of this city and enjoy the luminosity of our skies.

 

 

Can you tell us anything about your current projects, dreams and aspirations?

 

I am launching the project "Jewels with Art", a unique challenge to people I consider to have an exceptional sensitivity and aesthetic, to design jewellery. These pieces do not intend to compete with traditional jewellery but complement them. They are people with no training in jewellery and, therefore, without any restrictions or preconceived ideals. They will always be handmade and unique or limited edition pieces. They are designed to be worn by people who like to take risks and will add their personality to the art of jewellery.

I believe jewellery represents miniature pieces of art that can be worn daily or on special occasions. 

It is worth discovering the unique jewels designed by great artists such as Picasso, Braque and Rodin.

 

 

And when you are not focused on your clients, how do you like to relax? 

 

I have the habit of starting the day very early and taking advantage of the silent morning freshness to take long walks through Jardim da Estrela, always accompanied by my greyhound.

I recently discovered the pleasure of rereading the Portuguese classics. At this moment, I am reading a fabulous book that I found at my parents' house, A Ilustre Casa de Ramires, by Eça de Queirós.