If you're familiar with the Arloca boutique, chances are you've come across the beautiful pieces by Claudine Moncion! Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, this jeweler from Longueuil creates all her jewelry by hand using sterling silver and copper. For Arloca, she agreed to share the behind-the-scenes of her craft.
- What is your journey as a jeweler? What led you to work in this field?
My business was born nearly 20 years ago when I was just 11 years old. I made jewelry from metal paperclips. I have always created and sold jewelry as my work. My current business came about naturally, even after long studies in architecture. During my architecture studies, I wanted to learn different jewelry techniques. I went to Florence, Italy, to take my first jewelry training. I then took various courses in Barcelona and Brooklyn. I believe that experiencing different schools of thought in various countries helps me design jewelry that stands out. My style is influenced by architectural references and merges classical and contemporary styles. My current production consists exclusively of pieces made from copper and silver. Each piece of jewelry is entirely made in Quebec according to traditional artisanal jewelry practices. I personally design each model and oversee production with the help of a small team of talented local jewelers.
- Can you tell us about your artistic approach? What are your inspirations?
Every year, I design a new collection based on a different concept. For example, I might base a collection on a particular shape, theme, or technique for transforming materials. For each collection, I put a lot of effort into preparing sketches on paper and creating prototypes. For instance, my new collection, MELT, is created from scrap silver and copper accumulated from my production over the years. The different metals are carefully weighed to ensure a uniform size, then melted on a charcoal block, forming small beads, each unique in texture and shape. The beads are then drilled, faceted, and polished by hand before being assembled into contemporary pieces in my signature style. For this particular collection, I would say my inspiration comes from the material itself and the fascinating way it transforms.
- What are the biggest challenges in your profession?
In the short term, my challenge is to become increasingly efficient in my production and to prevent long hours of work in the workshop! In the long term, I believe the greatest challenge in our field is managing to navigate through different eras with their many variations, whether economic, social, or aesthetic.
- What advice would you give to beginners in jewelry making?
Believe in the future of handmade goods in Quebec! Contributing to the growth of the crafts sector in Quebec is a great pride for me, and I believe it can be a significant source of motivation and determination for new jewelers. I am convinced that handmade work produced locally by a growing number of artisan jewelers contributes to Quebec's economic development while having a minimal impact on the environment. Moreover, due to its originality and high quality, Quebec jewelry is increasingly establishing itself in various national and international markets.
