Jaoven Ricoeur, a man who has successfully navigated the worlds of corporate and creative endeavors, has found himself drawn to the art of jewelry making. With a background in communications and a current role as a global manager of celebrities and influence for a luxury fashion house, Ricoeur’s journey into the realm of jewelry design was sparked by a yearning for the past and a desire for a more hands-on creative outlet. Growing up in rural southern France, Ricoeur was surrounded by the beauty of his father’s jewelry-making craft, an influence that would later manifest in his own creations. Despite the demands of his corporate career, Ricoeur found himself longing for a creative outlet that would allow him to express himself more fully. The arrival of the pandemic provided him with the necessary time to reconnect with his artistic side, and he began experimenting with ceramics, rediscovering the joy of creating with his own hands. It was during this time that Ricoeur’s interest in jewelry making was reignited. He approached his father with a request for a custom-made necklace, a piece that would symbolize their bond and his connection to his childhood home. His father eagerly agreed, but with one condition: Jaoven would have to design and carve the wax mold for the pendant himself. This challenge ignited a fire within Ricoeur, and he immersed himself in the process, creating a tiny sculpture in the shape of a smiling face that would eventually become his signature piece. As Ricoeur began wearing his necklace, its unique design caught the attention of others, leading to requests for similar pieces. He started collaborating with his father to create one-of-a-kind commissions for friends and, eventually, his Instagram followers. Over the course of 18 months, Ricoeur’s designs evolved to include sun and moon motifs, inspired by his childhood memories and his mother’s artwork. His pieces are deliberately devoid of branding, reflecting his desire for them to remain authentic expressions of his passion. The timeless, ageless, and genderless quality of Ricoeur’s jewelry adds to its appeal, creating a sense of personal connection for the wearer. Recently, Ricoeur has delved into the world of astrology, creating a horoscope-inspired collection of zodiac sign charms. He approaches this new venture with a thoughtful and inclusive mindset, striving to capture the essence of each sign in a way that resonates with its wearer, regardless of gender or personal interpretation. Ricoeur’s passion for astrology stems from his upbringing on his parents’ farm, where his mother introduced him to the subject. He believes that his own Gemini sign reflects the duality of his life, allowing him to adapt and thrive in diverse environments. Ricoeur’s journey from corporate to creative is a testament to the power of embracing one’s passions and the importance of finding fulfillment through personal expression. His jewelry designs are a reflection of his heritage, his artistic vision, and his deep connection to the human experience.
Jewelry Designer Jaoven Ricoeur’s Journey from Corporate to Creative
