Ara Vartanian

Jewelry Designer

Ara Vartanian is a Brazilian jewelry designer of Armenian origin, born in Beirut, Lebanon. Raised in São Paulo, he comes from a family deeply rooted in the gemstone and fine jewelry trade. Initially pursuing economics and working as a Nasdaq trader in New York, he eventually embraced his passion for jewelry in 2000, joining his father’s business before launching his own brand in 2005. Known for his bold, unconventional designs, Ara challenges traditional approaches to gemstone setting, creating emotionally charged and visually striking pieces. His wife, Brazilian model Sabrina Gasperin, has been a key muse and collaborator in his brand’s journey. Over the years, Ara has partnered with notable artists, including Janaina Tschäpe, Ernesto Neto, and supermodel Kate Moss, further cementing his reputation as a visionary in contemporary jewelry design. 

All Sessions by Ara Vartanian

10:45 am - 11:30 am

Brazil’s Gemstone Industry: A Leader in Compliance and Sustainable Practices

Brazil’s commitment to high compliance and sustainability standards is shaping the future of its gemstone sector and could serve as a global benchmark for responsible gemstone mining. However, achieving these standards presents challenges, particularly for small-scale miners, who often struggle with access to legal frameworks, financial resources, and technical support. This session will explore how Brazil is balancing environmental and ethical responsibilities with the realities of gemstone mining. Moderator : Manoel Bernardes