Expecting the birth of her first child in 2008, Puja Bordia realized the time was right to launch her lifelong dream, her own designer jewelry company. Descended from 18 generations of jewelers in Jaipur, India, jewelry was in her blood. It was also her passion.
Having studied fashion and design at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and worked with the industry’s top names such as Ralph Lauren, she was poised to launch her own Trésor. Her vision – “a fresh, contemporary approach…an ensemble of art and imagination.” Tresor’s goal was to entice clients to cherish every precious moment and “treasure every piece you own.”
“2008 was a challenging time to start a business,” Puja recalls. “Many were asking ‘Why now?’ But I thought I had nothing to lose. In 2009 we first exhibited at the Couture Show in Las Vegas. Everyone loved the collections. Our feedback was 100% positive. Beautiful gemstones, designs and workmanship – we had the total package. The collections were a huge success.”
Trésor currently features seven different collections with seven stories, ranging from haute couture to everyday lifestyle targeted for the woman self-purchaser. The colorful Mosaico collection displays patterns of colored gems. Creative Origami projects 3-D forms while Fin features long necklaces. Colorful gems in 18 karat yellow, white and rose gold abound. “I’m inspired by the beautiful gemstones. Their cut, color – all stir my imagination. Nature’s also a constant source of inspiration.”
Trésor’s classic, chic jewelry has adorned Hollywood celebrities such as Catherine Zeta Jones, Paris Hilton and Katy Perry and been featured in many top publications including Couture International, JCK, National Jeweler and InDesign. Regularly exhibiting at the major shows such as JA, JCK, Smart Show, Tucson and JIS in Miami, Trésor’s represented by many stores, galleries and boutiques throughout the US, Canada, South and Central America.
Recently Puja moved her headquarters from NYC to Miami. The stunning new showroom boasting high end features such as Italian mica employs green technologies. “Our family supports sustainable technologies. They’re incorporated into our factories. My brother’s a leading green advocate. Our house in Miami is all solar powered. Since we receive the blessings from Mother Earth, we give back to Mother Earth.”
What current trends does the designer see on the horizon? “Of course Pantone’s color of the year, radiant orchid, is hot now. We’re also seeing a resurgence of rainbow moonstone and fire opals. Look for clearer gems displaying a range of colors. Cabochons are also in.”
What does the future hold? “My ultimate goal is to open a retail store – or chain of stores. Our new Miami showroom’s a step in that direction.” Given Trésor’s rapid rise to success, the continued unfolding of Puja’s dream is a compelling story to follow.
Mia Katrin is an award-winning jewelry designer featured in over 70 top stores nationally. She is available for lectures and seminars. To add her Collections or book a lecture: www.jeweljewel.com, 877 539-3569, facebook.com/MiaKatrinforJEWELCOUTURELLC.
