Camila Weirich, the visionary behind SAL Jewellery, made a powerful impact at Milan Jewellery Week 2024, earning the coveted Trend Award from Harper's Bazaar. With a background in fashion and a deep appreciation for the artistry of jewellery making, Camila has crafted a brand that harmonizes traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. In this exclusive interview, she opens up about her creative vision, obstacles, and the distinctive influences shaping her unique style.
Camila Weirich, founder of SAL Jewellery and recent winner of the Trend Award at Milan Jewellery Week 2024, sat down with Italo Pantano for an insightful interview published by Harper's Bazaar Italia. In their conversation, Camila shared the journey that led her to establish SAL, shedding light on the inspiration behind her designs and the challenges she’s encountered. Her brand, which combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, draws from diverse influences that make each piece uniquely reflective of her artistic vision. Camila offers a glimpse into her creative world and the passion driving SAL Jewellery’s success through this candid discussion.
Camila Weirich, the founder of SAL Jewellery at her booth at Milan Jewellery Week
What inspired you to create SAL, and how did your journey into jewellery design begin?
During a trip to Greece with my mother, she bought a ring that attracted everyone's attention. When she lost it, my sister and I were devastated and searched for a similar one for two years without success. So I decided to make it myself. I studied jewellery making in Berlin, which was challenging at first. Eventually, I found an experienced goldsmith in Brazil with 24 years of experience and created the first ring with him. From that moment, I fell in love with the art of jewellery making and gemstones.
How would you define the philosophy of SAL?
For me, SAL is the balance between structure and freedom. I draw inspiration from the Brazilian landscape and its fluid, wild lines. My goal is to create jewellery with organic shapes that reflect an abstract and open vision of life yet have a solid and structured foundation.
SAL Jewellery statement earrings and rings in motion
What were the main challenges you faced when starting the brand?
The biggest challenge was building a talented team to turn my designs into tangible pieces. Finding an experienced goldsmith and a designer capable of translating my sketches was demanding. Additionally, clearly defining the brand's DNA was a continuous process of research and refinement.
How has winning the Trend Award at Milan Jewelry Week impacted your brand?
It has had a significant impact in terms of visibility. After the award, several art galleries began contacting me, expressing interest in my creations. This recognition has been crucial in establishing my brand as a new player in the jewellery market.
Camila Weirich and her Trend Award from Harper's Bazaar for the Statement earring
What is the creative process behind your pieces?
My process begins with observing nature and Brazilian modernist architecture. I enjoy creating jewellery that explores the contrast between structured lines and fluid curves, aiming to reflect a balance between order and freedom.
What distinguishes SAL in the jewellery market?
SAL stands out for its use of substantial and modern volumes while maintaining attention to detail and artisanal quality. My jewellery is bold and contemporary, with high-quality finishes and a strong fashion influence.
What are your primary sources of inspiration?
I draw significant inspiration from Lina Bo Bardi's modernist architecture and Roberto Burle Marx's landscapes. Lina Bo Bardi influenced me by her contrasts between apparent lightness and density. At the same time, Burle Marx is a reference for how he integrates natural and urban elements in his projects. The Hanging Garden at the Palácio Gustavo Capanema in Rio de Janeiro is an incredible example!
One of the inspirations behind Sal Jewellery - Roberto Burle Marx's landscapes
Are your pieces influenced by trends, or do you aim to create timeless designs?
I strive to create timeless designs, but I inevitably absorb trends through my interactions with artists and musicians. For me, trends are more related to our collective behaviour than just what is currently fashionable.
What future projects do you have planned for SAL?
I am working on a new collection focused on sculpted stones, which fascinate me for their uniqueness. Among the new pieces, I want to reinterpret an antique family bracelet that belonged to my husband's great-grandmother. This bracelet has a unique story: it was hidden during the war to protect it from soldiers, and despite all the difficulties, it has come down to us. This piece evokes a strong connection with the Brazilian landscape and the influences of Roberto Burle Marx, whose work merges nature and modernity. I am working to transform these elements into a new piece of jewellery, combining the transparency of crystal with the strength of organic shapes.
What advice would you give to emerging designers?
Learn to do everything yourself and make the most of moments of boredom, as they often form the basis of creativity. Don't underestimate any part of the creative process, and learn as much as possible so you're prepared to handle any situation.
What does recognition from Harper's Bazaar mean to you?
It is a great honour and has already had a significant impact, bringing new opportunities and visibility. Knowing that this recognition positively affects all the people working with me is one of the greatest satisfactions.
We thank Camila Weirich and Italo Pantano for an insightful interview published by Harper's Bazaar Italia.
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