If you believe in omens, former banker Manju Jasty is living her destiny
Born in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and raised in the suburbs of New York City, designer Manju Jasty spent her childhood summers touring Indian holy sites such as Tirupati, where a famous golden idol enchanted her. After college, she pursued investment banking, until she could no longer deny her fascination with gems and jewels, nor, perhaps, her destiny: Manju’s first name is derived from the Sanskrit word for “jewel box.”
Who: Manju Jasty Age: 33 Home base: New York City What: Manju Jasty Fine Jewels Where to buy: Barneys New York or by appointment at www.manjujasty.com Philosophy: Wearing fine jewelry should be a physical pleasure as well as a source of joy. Inspiration: All things beautiful, from the shapes of the Taj Mahal to the shape of a calla lily. Gemstone preferences: Diamonds: a simple and elegant statement, but a statement nonetheless. Design epiphany: When my mom gave me permission to deconstruct a necklace and earrings I had inherited and I realized I could refashion it into something I would use and thoroughly enjoy wearing. Dream clients: Julianne Moore and Charlize Theron Breakthrough moment: Meeting Julie Gilhart (fashion director of Barneys) the day I resigned from banking. I ran into her a few months later, at which point she admired my earrings (of my own design) and suggested I schedule an appointment with her office. Training: Design is self-taught; construction I learned by working with artisans in India. Retail price range: $4,000–$150,000.
Homage to India Manju Jasty’s Indian heritage is reflected in these bell-shaped earrings and carved emerald necklace.
