One to Watch: Raphaele Canot

London--If you don’t know the name Raphaele Canot, then you’re at least likely to be familiar with her former employers, Cartier and De Beers LV, where Canot held the title of creative director.

Now, Canot is a few years into her own namesake fine jewelry line.

Her OMG! ring, which has been expanded into a full-fledged collection, got lots of press when it debuted for its mix of cheek and elegance; the shape of the ring resembles that of an open mouth with jaw dropped, hence the name.

Canot’s aesthetic can be playful, but the experienced designer has a classic side as well. She’s a lover of diamonds and likes to “set them free,” or let the stones dangle, for maximum sparkle.

We chatted with the French designer, who now makes her home in London, on her impressive jewelry background and what’s to come for her on-the-rise line.



National Jeweler: Tell me about your professional background. What brought you to jewelry design?

Raphaele Canot: I entered Cartier with a master’s in copyright and intellectual property law, which led me from dealing with business and legal matters to retail, marketing, product development and product design. It was not a straight route but the most enjoyable of rides and the most useful experience for my entrepreneurial adventure.

Revisiting the Cartier archives and reviving the myth of the famous Panther paved my route to becoming De Beers’ creative director and later on, the founder of my own brand.

NJ: What is the inspiration behind your collections?

RC: My motto for my fine jewelry collections is “light-spirited diamond jewelry!” My jewelry has a timeless quality yet a modern appeal in the way diamond classics are revisited. Set Free diamonds are pierced and free from any metal to shake from delicate earrings and rings. Skinny Deco eternity rings, earrings and bangles shine in contrast with red enamel on white gold or white enamel on rose gold. My OMG! line has quickly become a favorite among stylists and clients with its quirky and vibrant appeal. I like telling a story of “smiling, shining, sharing.”

NJ: Where is your jewelry made?

RC: The delicately pavéd styles are made in Thailand, where the workshop that makes my designs come to life have mastered the art of micro-pavé. I also work with a Parisian atelier for the enamel work.

NJ: What should retailers focus on, or what