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Meet Trailblazer Raquel Paiz

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Raquel Paiz.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The best way to start talking about my brand is by telling you my story. The story that led me to the way I’ve been creating since then. From my grandma’s jewelry box, I started bringing new meanings to my little world, transforming old pieces into something unique.

Brazil was the scenario for my first chapter.
Where everything started.

When reminiscing of my own path, I can see myself in my twenties transforming raw metals into shapes I created in my mind. And this is still the essence of my ten years of experience in metalsmithing.

Since my first piece of jewelry, all I wanted was to bring up precious memories which my clients could relate to because they remind them about their own memorable experiences. Because when we live memorable moments, we want to treasure it forever.

Turning the page, Portugal was my next destination. Where I spent a year studying contemporary metalsmithing techniques.

Diving into a new culture, I discovered jewelry techniques that could make my creations even better: different materials, types of jewelry finishes to create extraordinary pieces, a lot of learning. My experience abroad opened my eyes to what I was able to create and how I could understand my clients to tell their stories in a unique way.

Back to my hometown, Belo HOrizonte, that in English means Beautiful Horizon. I realized I was looking for a way to start writing my own story. But something was still missing. From there, I decided to move to Rio de Janeiro, where I stayed for four years learning with the best jewelry tutors. For the first time, I felt how beautiful was to live closer to the ocean’s vibe, which could really open my mind (and heart). All the time, I was telling stories with my creations, my collections were sold out, people were enjoying the way I chose to build my brand.

During all this time, being a jeweler was a back and forth status. Between a full-time job and a part-time job.

But one day, I realized that I had to fully pursue my dream. So, I quit my full-time job and decided to dedicate 100% on creating a life doing what I love.

And how I got here in Denver?! I got in love with an American boy. Got married in Brazil with him. And we decided to start this new chapter here in his hometown. He lived in Brazil with me for three years, learned Portuguese, experienced the culture… and now, it’s my turn.

And all my journey brought me here…

I arrived in the US bringing my recognized expertise to get to know everything about the American handmade jewelry community. It’s a different market and I’m still learning for sure. But I’m already happy with what I accomplished so far.

See people returning at my booth during shows, see people randomly wearing one of my pieces on the street.
face.

“There is nothing more satisfying than getting to know that my jewelry is my customer’s favorite piece or that it always carries a good memory”.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
For sure it’s not smooth to start a business in a new country, new language, new culture… without knowing anyone… I knew it would be hard but I never thought that would be that hard.

But building a business, it’s hard and takes time. You need to be brave and persistent. And be very patient too.

But I really believe if you put love in what you do people will see it. And with time, the success will come.

I got lucky to run into so many amazing people that became my friends and helped me. Building a community around you is very important.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Raquel Paiz Jewelry – what should we know?
Minimalist And Geometric Shapes
Modern With A Pinch Of Classic
Handmade
Unique

All my pieces are handmade and designed by me.

I spent hours and hours creating my pieces. From the concept to the end.

When I say handmade I mean. Transform raw materials into jewelry using soldering, forming, bending, sanding, polishing…

I do everything… so as a one-woman production all my creations come in a small number of pieces or one of a kind.

I use traditional and contemporary metalsmithing techniques with a focus on creating beautiful pieces with a timeless quality.

All pieces are made of recycled silver or gold. Now, I’m introducing gold filled and vermeil as a more affordable golden jewelry without losing the quality.

I love working with Brazilian gemstones. I’m from Brazil and working with them makes me feel close to my roots.o I try to use them whenever I can.

Through my jewelry, I believe I can inspire people and bring some beauty into the world. If my clients feel amazing wearing my creations, my mission was completed with success.

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
I love following @metalsmithsociety and @flourishandthrive.

I also try to follow other kinds of art profiles that can inspire me.

Contact Info:

Image Credit:
Vitor Goulart, Bruna Issa

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