Jacqueline Lee/E!Engagement rings are extra-special for a reason.
You don't have to explain to us that this one piece of jewelry is forever. Though we're not splurging on forever diamonds on the regular, we do have a knack for taking notice when a particularly awe-inspiring band catches our eye. Maybe it's because Tacori is the choice jeweler of so many celebs, but whatever the reason is, we're sold on the stylized designs from the family-owned business.
To learn more about the celeb-adored jeweler, President of Design and Operations Nadine Tacorian Arzerounian sat down with us to share a bit more about the company.
How did you get into the fine jewelry industry?
I was born into this industry.
What was your first job?
My first job was working with my parents during the summer months when I was in high school. I pretty much helped out anywhere they needed me, whether it was stamping and sealing envelopes, or just making them coffee.
What is a typical day like for you?
I get up around 6:30 a.m. I spend my 30-minute drive into work reflecting on what my intentions are for the day and what I am grateful for that day. It really helps me get into the right state of mind when I enter our studios. Since my role is split between design and operations, I'm usually jumping back and forth between creative and procedural meetings multiple times a day, which I love since it challenges me and always keeps me on my toes.
What's the best part about your job?
There are so many amazing parts of my job. I get to be creative every day and help design pieces that help make dreams come true. I also love working with our team. Everyone is so passionate about their job and this company. I also get to work with my family.
What's the most daring career risk you've ever taken?
Joining the family business. There are so many amazing things about working with family, but it can also be really challenging at times.
Who are some of your career heroes?
I know this might sound cheesy, but my career hero is my mom. I watched her build this company from the ground up with my dad and at the same time she did an amazing job raising two children. She never made us feel like her career came before us. She worked crazy hours and knew exactly how to help my father successfully grow the company. Since I'm a new mom, I really see how challenging this can be and I'm so motivated to do the same for my family.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Listen to what the other person is saying instead of thinking about how you're going to respond.
To you, what jewelry is worth splurging on?
Anything that signifies an important moment in your life.
What design is Tacori best known for and why do you think you do it so well?
Our most popular selling style, is an engagement ring from our Dantela Collection, style no. 2620RDLGP. This eye-catching beauty features a unique setting that creates a look that is a beautiful juxtaposition of modern, yet traditional; classic, yet unconventional. A beautiful, diamond-surrounded cushion center stone is surrounded by pavé set diamonds curving along the ceiling, with signature Tacori crescent details along the sides and lace like detailing under the crown. A true contemporary heirloom!
In your opinion what nice jewelry pieces should every girl own?
If marriage is in the picture, of course a beautiful Tacori engagement ring! Also, a pair of diamond studs, a right hand ring, and a pendant that signifies your individuality and personal style.
Finish the sentences below:
Today for lunch I had… a salad from Gelson's with a bunch of veggies and chicken. Also a piece of chocolate with almonds from See's Candies.
The first website I log onto every day is… Instagram.
My usual Starbucks order is… grande skinny latte, but I'm a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf kind of girl.
If I wasn't doing this job, I would… be running a boutique Patisserie shop somewhere on the West side (of L.A.) featuring my grandmother and mother's amazing recipes.
My favorite place to visit is… anywhere I can be with my family enjoying good food (and good wine of course).
List five things that are on your desk right now… pictures of my family, a terrarium with a little man holding a sign that says I love you that my husband gave me, sketches of our upcoming collections, a pile of magazines, and my water bottle.
The book I'm reading right now is…The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz and Positive Discipline, The First Three Years (yup…I'm that first time mom…don't judge!).