There are artists who utilize a very precise methodology and those who can bypass the planning, pen-on-paper stage and simply feel their way through, pouring all of their mental energy into an organic and experimental piece of art. Jewelry designer Michal Yakar definitely embodies the artist in the latter category.
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa and raised largely in the Great Neck suburb of Long Island New York, Yakar always harbored a passion for art. Ironically, she wasn’t initially drawn to shiny pieces of jewelry. In fact, the F.I.T. graduate says her entire career as an unfolded because she was looking for a simple but jazzy bow to wear in her hair and, not finding anything quite unique enough, she resorted to making her very own accessory using different trims purchased at Manhattan’s M&J Trimming store.
Years later, while in college, Yakar was residing in Pomona and, to fill her time, she started toying with the idea of making jewelry — but, unlike most artists, she never sketched or imagined the pieces prior to executing them. She would simply look at the beads and crystals laid out before her and experiment, until she finally came upon an intriguing and truly beguiling design.
What started out as a hobby turned into a bonafide profession when, while wearing her designs at her job as a restaurant hostess, various customers started expressing an interest in purchasing pieces. Within weeks, she’d sold three of her designs. From there, the business continued to thrive. Soon thereafter, she presented her line at New York City’s prestigious Henri Bendel boutique and was immediately selected to participate in their trunk show. A feature in Elle‘s May 2006 issue followed.
When creating her pieces, Yakar thinks about her own classic, elegant tastes. “I use myself as a typical customer since my jewelry is the only jewelry I would wear (other than what my husband gives me),” she explains. “I am a classic dresser who prefers neutral tones and simple silhouettes, so my jewelry sets off my wardrobe with the perfect amount of color. They are truly conversation pieces.”
I have to agree ’cause these pieces definitely have ME talking! Check out the “Luisia” necklace, pictured third from top, which features two layered 14k gold-filled chains with oversize amethyst stones, and accenting citrine and topaz briolettes (this one’s my absolute favorite piece!). If you prefer a more netural piece, then opt for the “Dilatata” (pictured at top). which boasts a similar design to that of the “Luisia” — it, too, features hoops wrapped in suede and funky briolettes, but the “Dilatata” is a bit more understated as it incorporates daintier brown and cream topaz stones.If you’re looking for a summer-y piece that makes you think of island paradises,then check out the “Angelfish” necklace (pictured second from top), which features a 14k gold-filled chain and blue chalcedony drops in interesting triangle shapes with rounded edges.
Get familiar, ladies!
Michal Yakar Jewelry “Dilatata” necklace, $284; “Angelfish” necklace, $332.72; and “Luisia” necklace, $390. All pieces are available via e-mail inquiry at MichalYakar.com
