Stephany Gabriel

Representing one of the very few specialised classically trained hand engravers in the world, Stephany’s fine skills and craftsmanship comes with over 10 years experience working in leading jewellery and luxury brands. She is founder of Liberté Engraving, providing personalised and authentic bespoke fine hand engraving services.

“With each metal carving I make, I find that a piece of myself goes with that item. Celebrating yourself, or your loved one, remembering a family name, or a wedding date, each walk in life should be celebrated. What makes hand engraving so unique compared to machine? Fine Hand engraving provides you with the engraving depth needed, to outlast lifetimes… I created Liberté Engraving so that everyone will have a chance to share in this great craft.”

Stephany shares with us her unique passion in this short interview.

When did you first realise you wanted to be a hand engraver?
I realised I wanted to be an engraver upon my third or fourth year of “take your child to work day” at my mom's job. So roughly eight years old. But I believe I took it as a potential serious artisan career opportunity, when I was 22, and working my very first summer job at Tiffany & Co.

Tell us about your design style. What makes your design unique in the industry?
My design style is something I like to fit to the personality of the person receiving the engraved item, and the piece I’m working on. It awards a more unique touch because I do enjoy talking to my clients and getting a firm idea of the importance of the gift.

As a designer, where do you draw your inspiration from? What inspires you?
Each experience I have in my walk through life is inspirational. It may not always be great, or even good but all are worth it. The knowledge I take from it, makes me a better engraver. But most importantly  they make me strive to be a better human being. So, I suppose my answer is living inspires me.

What is your favourite engraving tool/technique?
My favourite tool to use is my point tool. It is so versatile, so delicate, and also the most dangerous tool. You have to respect every tool you use but this tool if mistreated, can truly ruin your day.

Who are your favourite designers/engravers?
My favourite jewellery designer is Jean Schlumberger.  My favourite engraver is actually a wood engraver, named Claire Leighton.

How do you decide what you want to create?
I don’t decide what to create. It’s more like, whatever I create has decided I should be the one to bring it into the physical world.

When is enough enough?
Well, with my work it’s never enough. Usually, when I throw down my tool, that’s when I’ve hit the take a break point. Take the time to walk away and come back to it with fresh eyes.

Three words that sum up your brand.
Versatile, organic, and vibrant.

What is your favourite piece you’ve ever created – and what made it so special?
I love everything I create so I don’t have favourite pieces. I have favourite experiences with certain items.

When not working, what takes up your time… any hobbies?
When not working....as of late it feels like I’m always working!  I like to spend my free time with my creative writing, and catching up with my family and friends. I love dancing, reading, and people watching.  

Read Stephany's full bio.