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Andre Marcha’s journey into the world of jewelry started at a young age in Beirut, where he was surrounded by a family of jewelers. His artistic inclinations led him to explore various forms of art, including drawing and sculpting. However, it was his fascination with sculpting and a chance encounter with Italian artist Germani that set him on the path to becoming a renowned jewelry designer. Marcha’s story is one of passion, creativity, and a dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional jewelry design.
A Family Legacy and Early BeginningsGrowing up in a family of jewelers, it was no surprise that Andre Marcha would follow in their footsteps. His journey began with a gift from his school’s principal – a set of painting materials to encourage his artistic pursuits. At the age of 14, he decided to delve into sculpting, setting the stage for his future in jewelry design. His apprenticeship as a stone setter at the age of 17 marked the beginning of his remarkable journey in the world of jewelry.The Significance of Wax CarvingOne pivotal moment in Marcha’s career occurred when he met Italian artist Germani, a master in wax carving who had worked for his uncles. Despite Germani’s attempts to keep his techniques a secret, Marcha’s determination to learn was unwavering.
Wax carving became his discipline of choice, allowing him to translate his initial designs and emotions into tangible jewelry pieces. Wax offered the flexibility to experiment, modify, and refine designs until perfection was achieved.Sculpted Jewelry and Embracing ImperfectionMarcha’s approach to jewelry design is marked by the use of wax to create art-sculpted jewels. He finds inspiration in the imperfections of Baroque pearls, sculpting pieces around their natural formations. The result is jewelry that celebrates the organic and the imperfect, a departure from traditional, flawless gems. This unique perspective sets his pieces apart, making them audacious, unconventional, and non-conformist.Inspiration from NatureNature plays a significant role in Marcha’s creative process.
He draws inspiration from the majesty of the natural world, with its vibrant colors, perfect imperfections, and creative chaos. Observing the movement and structures of animals has influenced his designs, as well as the shapes and volumes of fruits and vegetables. His appreciation for nature’s beauty is evident in each of his pieces.Paris: A Revelation of Art and DetailIn 1975, a trip to Paris proved to be a revelation for Marcha. He discovered beauty in unexpected places, from the entrances of metro stations to 19th-century buildings. The intricate details in sculpted stones and cathedrals served as inspiration for his Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Old meets New collections. Subsequently, private art collectors sought Marcha’s expertise in creating art sculptures adorned with precious stones for display in palaces and museums.Innovation with Laser TechnologyAs the new century dawned, Marcha opened his flagship store in Beirut’s Phoenicia Hotel and invested in laser technology during a visit to Basel. This technological innovation revolutionized and elevated the brand’s work, taking it to new heights.
Today, Andre Marcha’s jewelry is not only celebrated by royalty but also by sophisticated socialites and celebrities, including Majida El Roumi, Nancy Ajram, Haifa Wehbe, Elissa, Maya Diab, Mouna Ayoub, and Mahira Abdelaziz.A Family Legacy ContinuesMarcha’s journey has not been a solitary one. His family has joined him on this artistic adventure. His children, Stephanie, Bruno, and Jeff, have embraced the world of jewelry, following in their father’s footsteps. Stephanie serves as the brand representative and handles public relations. Bruno, a jewelry designer, seeks a balance between technology and craftsmanship. Jeff, a jewelry designer and business developer, continues to nurture his passion for creating and working with his hands.
The Ultimate Advice: Invent and Take RisksAndre Marcha’s motto encapsulates his approach to life and art: “I’d take the risk.” His advice to aspiring artists and designers is to never stop inventing, to throw themselves into the unknown, and to embrace experimentation. He encourages them to break free from comfort zones and explore new forms, colors, and materials. For Marcha, the journey is about pushing boundaries and continuously inventing.In the world of jewelry design, Andre Marcha’s creations are a testament to innovation, artistry, and the celebration of imperfections. His jewelry pieces transcend tradition, embracing audacious designs that captivate the senses.
