Jack Hovsepian studied engineering, but never turned an engineer because his passion for jewelry design, his creative potential, as well as his father’s designer influence impelled him to establish his own jewelry brand, Danhov, in Los Angeles. Jack sees future designs of his signature rings in his dreams and admires to listen to his customers’ happy wedding stories. May be his new creation, the Abbraccio ring, recognized as the best wedding design at JCK Las Vegas 2011, also came to him from the dream land?
Today, Danhov is a designer jewelry company specialized in bridal and engagement rings, located in the heart of jewelry district in downtown Los Angeles. All of Danhov’s designs are handmade or hand assembled and new designs are created every month.
As far as we know, you were formally educated in engineering in the Eastern Europe, but then decided to study fine jewelry making. What made you go this way? What education did you get for your career in jewelry business?
I have always been interested in design. As a child, I helped my father in his shops as he created beautiful haute couture clothing. I developed a deep appreciation for haute couture, and I use his influence in my jewelry designs. My father made custom couture clothing, and under his influence I create beautiful and unique rings. I was trained in engineering, but my passion was in jewelry design. I was always drawing designs and decided to make a business out of it so I could share my designs with others.
How do you differentiate Danhov from competitions? What makes Danhov unique?
What differentiates Danhov from its competitors is that everything at Danhov is either made by hand or is hand assembled. We never use molds, as they detract from the quality and unique sophistication of a ring that can only exist in hand-assembled pieces. Danhov is able to marry modern jewelry making methods with traditional and classic designs our customers can take pride in.
Would you tell us more about your heritage and inspiration for Danhov as a jewelry brand?
Inspiration for Danhov jewelry pieces comes to me in many forms. Oftentimes, I will have a dream about a ring design, and when I wake up, I draw it. I also get information from artists through various mediums, such as paintings and sculptures. I have a great admiration for artists who broke the mold and created something unique, such as Van Gogh when he used painting methods much different from famous painters at the time. Appreciating another designer’s distinctive work inspires me to create my one-of-a-kind designs.
Are you pleased with the results from the 2011 JCK trade show in Las Vegas? Could you reveal the expected amount in total revenues from JCK orders this year?
I am extremely pleased with the results of the show. Per Danhov company policy, we don’t share specifics on revenues. However, I can confidently say Danhov is increasing its orders as the company continues to impress in the jewelry industry.
Please say a few words about the new Abbraccio collection that you featured at JCK Show? Was it well received by your retail partners?
I’m very proud of our Abbraccio collection. The collection is one of our most popular, and gained attention from the jewelry industry when it was awarded “Best Bridal Design” at JCK. The collection features handmade rings that feature two pieces beautifully “embracing” the stone.
Which award did the Abbraccio ring receive?
The Abbraccio ring was awarded the JCK Jeweler’s Choice Awards in honor of being chosen as the Best Bridal Design ring for 2011.
What is your initial investment in a new line?
Our initial investment in a new line varies per line based upon the level of intricacy, detail and R&D, therefore it’s difficult to provide an accurate response for you.
Can you say what the major/best sellers in Danhov stores are?
Our top sellers include the Abbraccio collection, which won Best Bridal Ring of 2011 at JCK. The Abbraccio collection is popular because it is a uniquely beautiful twist on a classic design. Our Per Lei collection is also popular, and features a patented stone setting. It is a beautiful piece of jewelry that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
Do you have an Internet marketing strategy? Are mobile websites, iPhone applications, social media part of it?
We do have an internet marketing strategy that includes social media. Because our rings are hand-crafted and designed to match the sophistication and exceptionality of the wearer, we love to hear the individual engagement stories from our customers. Social media have given us the opportunity to hear stories from so many of our customers, and we are able to quickly respond back and thank them for their business. I love that we are able to quickly share customers’ experiences with others through the convenience of having a strong web presence.
Please name the most stunning natural gemstone you've ever seen.
For me, it’s more about the design of the ring and finding the stone that complements that design. The most beautiful stone naturally goes with an equally beautiful band that was specifically designed to match its elegance.
Which was the most memorable piece you've ever made?
The most memorable piece I have ever made is the Abbraccio ring. The ring is so unique, a characteristic that has captured the attention of both consumers and retailers. The Abbraccio ring has become a personal favorite of everyone at Danhov, and we love it as much as our customers do.
Olga Patseva, Editor in Chief of the American Bureau, Rough&Polished
