Locals Only

A spotlight on the hottest regional designers of the moment

- Carmel Harrison

How does your Middle Eastern heritage inspire your collections?

Colombia and Lebanon are my heritage. I live in the contrast between city and mountains, between order and chaos, between East and West. It is in Paris where these worlds come together and blend in my journal and designs. My jewellery is a fusion of my different backgrounds, but is also a clear depiction of who I am. I am a citizen of contrasting countries, and all of that comes into play in my design.

Where did you study?

I studied design at ESMOD in Paris where I specialised in accessories, which then led me to pursue a deeper understanding and study of jewellery. I then spent two years studying at L’AFEDAP Formations Bijou in Paris, where my specialty was precious stones. This is really where I fell in love with the stones I use today in my work. For example, the raw emeralds that have become an Amy Gattas Bijoux signature.

Where did you grow up?