Denise Tobler has been passionate about designing stunning jewelry since she was a child making accessories out of paper and bottle caps to sell to classmates. After studying gemology at prestigious schools, Tobler founded Devaluchi Joaillerie in 2018 with the intent of creating high-quality, fashion-forward jewelry that sets itself apart from the traditional and the ordinary.
Devaluchi Joaillerie focuses on experimentation, allowing the brand’s pieces to become synonymous with luxury living and savoir-vivre. Tobler’s company is also committed to sustainability by working with talented artisans who use raw materials.
The Untitled Magazine caught up with Tobler to discuss the evolution and impact of Devaluchi Joaillerie in the world of fine jewelry and how it can empower women. Read our interview with Denise Tobler below.
What inspires your passion for jewelry design?
My love for jewelry, shiny things, and art is my inspiration for designing jewelry pieces.
How did you get into it? We understand you studied design and gemology.
I studied jewelry design, jewelry appraisal, and jewelry manufacturing in the Philippines. Then I took up gemology at the Gemological Institute of America. I got into jewelry designing because ever since I was kid, I’ve always loved wearing and making jewelry pieces. I even remember making accessories out of paper and bottle caps and selling them to my classmates. Another reason why I got into jewelry design and gemology is because of my mother and my grandmother. Jewelry is in my blood – my mother and my grandmother have influenced me because they love jewelry so much that it was passed on to me at a very early age.
Can you walk us through your path to founding Devaluchi Joaillerie?
After getting my diploma from the Gemological Institute of America, I started dreaming of having my own jewelry company, which was the start of Devaluchi Joaillerie. Using sterling silver and sagentic quartz, I created my very first jewelry collection, and I was very happy. I showcased my pieces via Instagram and Facebook and started selling them to my friends and family friends. Thankfully, Devaluchi was well accepted online. After testing the waters online, I decided to open a physical store at 2/F Eastwing Estancia Capitol Commons, Philippines. The path to having your own business, having a physical store, and managing it is really hard. You encounter lots of stress, but after solving all the hurdles you realize it was worth it!
What has your experience been as a female business owner?
Being a female business owner gives me mixed emotions. Sometimes I hate it because people expect so many things from you. You’re expected to earn a lot, be organized, and still be pretty – it’s just too much sometimes. On the other hand, you get to be proud of yourself, and you get to discover strengths you thought you never had.
What is your vision for the brand and its audience?
My vision for Devaluchi Joaillerie is to inspire and make every woman feel worthy and like she is a prize.
You’re also a gemologist – which gemstones are your favorites to work with and why?
I love working with peridots, and looking at them with my microscope is fun. Some of them have inclusions, called lily pads, which are really beautiful and fun to look at.
Can you describe your design process?
My design process starts with observation. I take a good look at the surroundings and if something comes up, I draw it on a piece of paper right away.
What inspires you when you’re creating new designs?
I get inspired by beautiful architectural buildings when I travel and by other jewelry designers. Whenever I look at a jewelry magazine and I see beautiful jewelry pieces, that really inspires me to create my own version.
Is there a design that you feel is your signature piece?
I feel like colorful enamel jewelry pieces are my signature pieces because they reflect my personality, which is fun and bubbly.
In your own words, what makes Devaluchi Joaillerie jewelry special?
Devaluchi Joaillerie is really special because we value quality, honesty, and great craftsmanship. Also, our pieces are handcrafted and originally designed.
We understand each piece is handcrafted by local artisans – can you tell us where they are made and how you find and work with the talented locals who make them?
Each of our pieces is handcrafted and made in our small workshop located in Quezon City, Philippines. I am proud to say that our manufacturing team is hard-working, honest, and very skilled.
What are some of the ways that the brand emphasizes sustainability?
We practice sustainability by focusing on an energy-efficient manufacturing process, engaging in fair labor practices, and implementing recycling initiatives.
Is there anyone you’d like to see wearing one of your designs in the future?
I would love to see Liza Urla, a jewelry influencer, wear my jewelry pieces one day because I’m a big fan of hers, and I just love how creative and curated her Instagram page is.
How do you see Devaluchi Joaillerie evolving in the future?
I see Devaluchi Joaillerie evolving globally. It would be a dream to see my pieces on Net-a-Porter and Moda Operandi. I also would like to showcase my pieces at curated boutiques like Selfridges and Harrods.
As a female founder, how do you see Devaluchi Joaillerie influencing women who wear your designs, especially in terms of confidence?
I influence others in terms of confidence by being true to myself, not thinking what everybody thinks, and just expressing myself.
Where can our readers purchase a Devaluchi Joaillerie piece?
You may shop through our website: www.devaluchijoaillerie.com.
For more from Devaluchi Joaillerie, follow its Instagram: @devaluchijoaillerie
