Discover the studio, materials, production, and design.
Discover the studio
Founded in 2015, the Sophie Buhai brand offers heirloom-quality modernist jewelry and accessories, designed for everyday wear, that transcend generations and trends. The collections express a distinct visual language, melding elements of minimalism and surrealism with a thoughtful sense of proportion and scale.
The brand debuted with an emphasis on contemporary interpretations of the modernist sterling silver jewelry tradition, and has since become known for its use of signature materials including pearls, onyx, and lapis. It now encompasses both the experimental seasonal collections, which explore more sculptural silhouettes and semi-precious accent materials, as well as a core permanent collection of the most classic and versatile styles. In early 2021, the assortment expanded to include a collection of fine jewelry and functional objects that double as sculptures in miniature, fabricated in 18 karat gold. Sophie Buhai pieces are designed in the hills of Hollywood and artisan-made in downtown Los Angeles.
Materials
Each Sophie Buhai collection is designed with the intention of creating timeless pieces that can be passed down through generations, with minimal waste and minimal carbon footprint.
Sophie Buhai jewelry is made with recycled and responsibly sourced sterling silver and gold. Semi-precious accent materials are sourced responsibly as well. We aim to minimize waste in the production process, and therefore, many of our pieces are made to order.
Production
Local production allows us to support our community and to reduce waste and the use of resources. Virtually all pieces are made by local artisans based in Los Angeles, with expertise in traditional methods of crafting jewelry by hand. Occasionally, a special technique or material may require the expertise or proximity of an overseas workshop. However, in all cases, we work with responsible manufacturing partners and suppliers, and we produce our pieces locally whenever possible.
About the Designer
Sophie Buhai is a fifth-generation Los Angeles native. Upon graduating from Parsons School of Design in New York in 2003, she co-founded the fashion label Vena Cava. After relocating to her hometown, she turned her attention to jewelry design in 2015. In addition to her namesake label, she designed jewelry collections for the French fashion house Lemaire from 2016-2018.