THE DIRT

After nearly 20 successful years in the investment industry working as a marketing and sales consultant for major banks and mutual fund companies, Vicente Agor began his career in jewelry design. The impetus for this significant career change began when he had a kidney and pancreas transplant in 2002. This life change prompted him to reorient his entire being. With this second chance at life, he just could not do things in the same manner. He literally altered his life priorities and he began to focus on his passions. This inner journey led to the creation of his jewelry company.

Vicente finds his inspiration by visiting exotic locales and juxtaposing the arts, architecture, culture and history of the places he visits. He thrives on the delight of discovery, and the unabashed charm of the unique. For him, the personal mix of different styles is a great and easy way to accomplish cool.

His pieces, dramatic yet personal, fashioned of 18K gold, sterling silver, diamonds and interesting or unique colored gemstones, are designed for the modern, urbane woman. In one word - Fabulous.

EVEN DIRTIER

How would you categorize your jewelry designs in general?

Boldly modern

Which celebrity do you most envision wearing your designs? And what would they be doing?

I am interested in the redefinition of the word CELEBRITY as it is widely used today. I am fascinated by the glamour of the red carpet, but it would be wonderful, if the celebrity of a woman was also based on her contribution to the greater good. For me, it is easy to admire a woman who is known for her actions and achievements.

For example, I would love it if Michelle Lew wore my jewelry. You may not know her, but armed with her masters from Harvard University in public policy, this activist is president and CEO of AACI, a non-profit organization that is focused on the health and social services of her community.

Or it would be great if Judith Jamison wore our jewelry. Her tireless verve (and nerve) as the artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, has allowed the dance company and its innovative youth arts-in-education programs to flourish in the same gracious manner as the woman herself.

What type of jewelry do you like to wear?

A ring - One of my one-of-one fire opal in matrix rings.

What is your idea of a dream vacation?

One where I have the opportunity to explore and laugh with the people I love, and then in the next moment, take the time to do some quiet self-reflection.

What article of jewelry do you think most enhances a woman's body? Why?

A diadem. Because everyone can use a little feeling of grandeur or magnificence now and again. And because wearing a crown can be a bit cumbersome while pushing the cart at the grocery store, how about for practical purposes, a cocktail ring to enhance those daily royal gestures?

What aspect of your jewelry is most reflective of you?

The design.

I design my jewelry with an admiration for the woman who wears it. So it has artisanal touches - small nuances that only the woman who wears the jewelry understands. Also like me, it is cerebral without the pretense.

Preferred metal:

18kt gold

Most likely to get energy from:

As an extrovert, my energy comes by surrounding myself with friends who can laugh and have a good time.

Preferred shopping venue:

Finding the hatch or the store off the travel guides; discovering the undiscovered.

Favorite Art Museum:

The Whitney Museum of American Art

Home decor/design:

A mix of exotic bazaar, mid-century modern, casual sophistication, and personal mementos without the twee. Dare i say, friendly schizophrenic?

Preferred abode on the rode:

Comfort, safety, and fun are all key when I travel.