Only natural stones and a new way of cutting semiprecious stones will do for Jean-Francois Michaud of Switzerland, who draws designs from Nature, and from natural things he develops them into fine form.
In Valenza, the fine form evolves. Use of natural materials including white and purple chalcedony, Russian jade, rock crystal and unusual “tri-color imperial topaz” of blue-green-pink gradations will take on the shapes of life-like herons, butterflies, flowers and owls. And they are no ordinary herons, butterflies, flowers and owls.
“The use of materials without being too expensive, color combinations and a new way of cutting semiprecious stones are different approaches,” Michaud said in an interview in Hong Kong. “Ours is quality and fine craftsmanship that you have to appreciate.”
The line, with price ranges from 1,000 U.S. dollars to 40,000 U.S. dollars, is soft, fluid and exciting. One actually wants what one sees, and to have it one must. The butterfly with spread wings in natural purple chalcedony, the 18-karat white-gold heron brooch set with pave diamonds, onyx, rock crystal, amethyst and two-tone imperial topaz, and the curious owl in onyx and rock crystal are just a few of Michaud’s offerings.
In Asia, Michaud’s jewelry are available in Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Singapore could be next. For the time being, Bangkok is unlikely, with its image of “backdated designs, quality (problems) and workmanship,” says Michaud, but quickly added that Bangkok’s gains are the jewelry manufacturing factories started by Hong Kong, Japanese and European investors. “The country is growing very fast now.”
Asked about Thailand’s eventual admission to the annual European Watch, Clock and Jewelry Fair, Michaud said: “Basel has become an international fair, why aren’t the Thais admitted as long as they behave. They have to accept certain rules and try not to bring too many copies. There is a lack of maturity in the Thai jewelry industry. But once mature, there will be no problem. It just needs a little bit of law and order.”