Pattaraphan Salirathavibhaga, founder of the fine jewelry brand Pattaraphan, recalls her journey from a “naive” 19-year-old at Pratt Institute to becoming a leading designer blending sculpture and self-expression in jewelry.
A Leap of Faith
Initially majoring in interior design, Salirathavibhaga switched to jewelry with no prior experience. Inspired by her grandmother’s emerald ring, she embraced the challenge and found her calling in her first jewelry class at Pratt. She graduated with honors in 2017 and earned her GIA Graduate Diamonds diploma in 2018.
From Retail to Her Own Brand
After working at fine jewelry brand Mociun as a production assistant and retail associate, Salirathavibhaga returned to Bangkok in 2018 to launch her brand, Pattaraphan. Her pieces aim to function as wearable sculptures, reflecting her Thai heritage and modern sensibilities.
Balancing Business and Design
While working for Dusit International, she honed branding and visual skills that she now applies to her jewelry. By 2020, Salirathavibhaga transitioned to full-time focus on Pattaraphan, crafting gender-neutral pieces like the Pavé Slim Chata band with black diamonds.
Global Expansion and Personal Philosophy
Pattaraphan’s flagship store opened in Bangkok last year, with international reach through retailers like Mr. Porter and Selfridges. Each design reflects her personal stories and commitment to making jewelry that feels like a second skin.
“My 19-year-old self would be so proud of everything my team and I have achieved,” she says, celebrating her journey from a student’s leap of faith to global success.