This month, we’re celebrating four jewelers from Armenian descent, starting with Kirk Kara!
Kirk Kara is celebrating its 125th birthday with the launch of a stunning engagement ring collection inspired by their Armenian heritage.
Some of the best jewelry designers in America are Armenians or from Armenian descent. Why are Armenians so talented at making jewelry?
Kirk Karaguezian’s grandfather, Bali Karaguezian, was a devoted Armenian craftsman. In 1890, he began creating one-of-a-kind heirloom jewelry pieces inspired by old world Armenian carvings. He taught the fine art of fine jewelry craftsmanship to his son Artin Karaguezian. Artin travelled to Armenia and Europe often to study their art and culture. Soon, he began to infuse this aesthetic into his craftsmanship. The result was a beautiful hand engraved wedding band he made for his wife, Angel’, which set the path for all Kirk Kara designs. Kirk Karaguezian, worked in his father’s shop learning the fine art of jewelry craftsmanship. From a very young age, he worked right alongside his father, and Kirk’s talent for jewelry design was born—though one might argue that it was truly innate. Today Kirk has passed down this passion for jewelry design to his two daughters Angela and Grace.
Are there elements of your designs still inspired by your heritage/background?
All the exquisite mesmerizing details and hand engravings are inspired by the details found in old world Armenian carvings.
Can you pick a ring in your collection that is more of an homage to your heritage/background?
In September of 2015, the Lori Collection will be available in stores. A love letter to the company’s Armenian roots, Lori is proudly named for a lush province in Armenia. These richly detailed engagement rings are inspired by intricate, old-world Armenian carvings, patterns, and art, with a nod to refined Art Deco style.
Have you been to Armenia recently? Which tourism sites/activities would you recommend for our couples who are romantic and interested in unique destinations.
My father Kirk and I visited Armenia earlier this year. On our visit we were very inspired by the art and culture and started the creation of the Lori collection. I recommend Armenia to couples who love nature, ecotourism, art and Christian history. It was the first nation to accept Christianity by government, and you can experience that by the hundreds of churches throughout the country. While on our visit, my father and I travel with Hyur Service. Hyur means guest in Armenian… and we had a great experience with them.
Watch the video to learn more!
