Caroline Pham
Montréal, Que.
Caroline Pham, Floralis Armlet, 2023. Sterling silver, from the 2023 collection "Climate Strange". Photo: ORA-C.
Studio: How would you describe your approach to your medium? What made you choose it?
Caroline Pham: I am a self-taught jeweler, and I believe that experimental trials and embracing the beauty of imperfections are key aspects of my creative process. I begin by crafting all my shapes out of wax, intentionally leaving my fingerprints visible, before transforming them into metal. I then set some pieces with stones or pearls using techniques I’ve developed over time. I have always been fascinated by precious, intricate artifacts, and using them to adorn the body is a puzzle I love to continuously explore.
Caroline Pham, Liquid Nodules ring, 2023. Brass, from the 2023 collection "Climate Strange". Photo: ORA-C.
S: How would you describe yourself, personally and professionally?
CP: I am a workaholic who dives deep into my thoughts and reveries on a daily basis. I tend to be a lone wolf but love the community of talented creators I was lucky to build around me over the years. I have a love for colors and the textures of all things natural. For years, I’ve advocated for slow fashion and environmentally friendly practices in the fashion industry. I see myself more as an artist or artisan than a brand owner.
Anthony wears the Floralis Collar, the Germinati earrings and the Capri Thorn earcuff in brass, from the 2023 lookbook called "Climate Strange". 2023. Photo: Feng Jiang.
S: What inspires you?
CP: Nature, history, stones and rocks, the idea of creating artifacts of an ancient otherworldly era, contradicting concepts, the power of femininity and counter-cultures.
Caroline Pham, Focalis Shrine ring, 2023. Brass set with carnelian and mother of pearl stones, from the 2023 collection "Climate Strange". Photo credit: ORA-C.
S: What do you see as your contribution to the field of your craft?
CP: The refinement of statement jewelry that celebrates the imperfections of handmade objects, and normalizing a small brand creating larger-than-life photography that provides a singular habitat where my pieces belong.
S: What wisdom do you want to impart to younger makers?
CP: Always create directly in your medium, allowing your ideas and aesthetics to emerge naturally over time. Your skills and technical abilities will grow exponentially as you continue to create. Don’t be too precious with your work; you can always create something new. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they might turn out to be beautiful.
Caroline Pham (ORA-C Jewelry)
instagram: @oracjewelry
website: ora-c.com/
This article was published in the Fall/Winter 2024-2025 issue of Studio Magazine.
