Celebrating International Women’s Day

with Messika and Monica Rich Kosann

In honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, Maison Birks invites two influential women from the jewellery industry to share their inspirations and their thoughts on the importance of celebrating women.

Valérie Messika, the founder and artistic director of Messika, famous for its exquisite diamond jewellery, and Monica Rich Kosann, the founder and designer of Monica Rich Kosann and its unique modern lockets, need no introduction. Each at the helm of their eponymous fine jewellery brands, they are the perfect example of women who have carved their own path to success. What better way to mark International Women’s Day than by inviting them to share their take on everything from business and jewellery, to how women can help empower each other? Here is what they had to say.

“Just follow your intuition—it is usually correct”

- Monica Rich Kosann

“My entire team is primarily made up of the most fascinating, strong, and intelligent women,” says Rich Kosann. Messika agrees that women contribute enormously to a company: “As a female leader, I lead my company with empathy and my heart,” she says. Promoting kindness over power and strength, she says, promotes a positive work environment.

Celebrate with Monica Rich Kosann

“My daughters are a constant inspiration to me,” says Monica Rich Kosann. “Watching them grow into very special, strong young women is a constant reminder of how life is a journey—and International Women's Day is an opportunity to celebrate those journeys by all women."

“Our jewellery is designed specifically so that a woman can celebrate her stories daily,” reveals Rich Kosann. “All our pieces hold meaning that become a woman’s armour for the day, whether it’s a locket that holds her secrets and loved ones close to help her feel strong, or a pendant necklace that reminds her to breathe or seize the day.”

Monica Rich Kosann

Modern Charm Queen Bee Yellow Gold and Diamond Pendant

$ 4,300

Treat yourself to Messika

International Women’s Day is all about celebrating women and honouring the achievements of those “who have demonstrated courage and the willingness to make a difference,” says Valérie Messika. “Celebrating this day is dear to my heart because women have an important place in my work and are one of my biggest inspirations.”

“Jewellery is a way to reveal your confidence,” declares Messika. “Nowadays, women buy their own diamond jewellery, which is something that can help them feel confident—it’s a type of self-achievement.” Having created her collections around the values of lightness, liberty, purity, and sensuality, Messika’s wish is to help women feel confident and powerful in their everyday lives.

Baby Move White Gold and Diamond Bracelet

Messika

Baby Move White Gold and Diamond Bracelet

$ 3,510

Their best advice for women in business: “Just follow your intuition—it is usually correct,” says Rich Kosann. For Messika, staying focused and never giving up are key elements: “Know your priorities and stay passionate,” she says. “You need to work hard to achieve your goal, but it will be worth it!”