Émilie Guillaume | Atelier Émigé
Émilie Guillaume is the jewelry designer behind the brand Émigé, which offers delicate, elegant and timeless jewels.
Emilie trained as a jeweler in France and quickly developed a passion for gemstones, specializing in the art of setting. Each of her creations begins with the selection of a gemstone, with a marked preference for sapphires due to their vast range of colors.
Her jewels are distinguished by their delicacy and timelessness, and are always crafted in 18-carat gold, reflecting her attachment to European style.
We're happy to present a short interview to make you discover who Emily is and what she loves!
Who are the artists you love the most, who inspire you or accompany you? Do they influence your work, and if so, in what way?
I don't really have a particular artist who inspires me. What really inspires me are the techniques used by the great jewelers to create exceptional pieces by hand.
One example that springs to mind is the Zip Necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels. Each element is meticulously assembled to make the zipper work. It's incredibly precise work. In fact, I'm inspired by most handicrafts, but I particularly appreciate the complexity of what I've mastered.
→ Zip Antique Rayon necklace transformable into a bracelet, rose gold, pink sapphires, rubies, diamonds ➡︎
If you could be reincarnated as a flower, which one would you choose and why?
Absolutely, without any hesitation, I'd choose the tiare flower! Their brilliant whiteness enhanced by a touch of bright yellow at the heart is truly captivating. And their intense frangipane fragrance is an experience in itself!
These flowers immediately take me back to Tahiti and New Caledonia, two islands that hold a special place in my heart.
How do you deal with times when you feel stuck or frustrated in your work? Do you have any strategies for overcoming these obstacles?
Stepping back is often my best weapon against frustration and obstacles.
A good night's sleep has the power to reorganize my thoughts and guide me towards solutions. Nothing beats the feeling of starting a new day with THE solution in hand.
How do you think art can have an impact on society or on people's lives? How does your own work fit into this broader context?
For me, the essence of art lies in sharing and transmission. It's an interaction between the artist and the world, awakening the senses and encouraging discussion.
My jewelry aims to evoke emotion in those who wear it, to tell a personal story and to endure through the generations.
If you could meet one person from history, who would it be and why?
Visiting Marie-Antoinette's jewelry box and wardrobe would be a fascinating experience.
The treasures and style of the era would offer a unique insight into history and elegance.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
The first that comes to mind is chocolate! I love eating it while I work...
What is your favorite museum (worldwide)?
It's hard to choose, but I'd say the Joan Miro Foundation in Barcelona.
And when I think of an exhibition or a work that has made a particular impression on me, I immediately think of Calder's Mercury Fountain. The way the molten metal is brought to life fascinated me deeply. Could it have something to do with my job?!
Finally, is there a film you can watch over and over again without getting bored?
Ensemble c'est tout.
I loved Anna Gavalda's book, and the film captures it perfectly. It's the kind of film you watch that puts you in a good mood!
Thank you for opening a bit on yourself Émilie!
