Cyrielle MATHIEUX

Dans le cadre de mon rôle de Responsable Communication au sein de l'association Phoenix Égalité des Chances, j'ai dirigé la campagne de financement participatif. Mon objectif principal était de collecter des fonds pour soutenir nos initiatives. Pour atteindre cet objectif, j'ai élaboré une stratégie de communication complète, comprenant la planification des activités et la mise en place de rétroplannings pour assurer le bon déroulement de la campagne.

Mes principales missions comprenaient l'organisation et l'animation de réunions avec les membres de mon équipe, ainsi que la collaboration avec eux pour créer le contenu de la campagne, comme les affiches, les dépliants et les tee-shirts. En plus de coordonner ces activités, j'ai également développé mes compétences en gestion de projets, en adaptabilité, en relations interpersonnelles et en créativité.

Les compétences métier que je souhaitais développer en menant ce projet étaient la gestion de projet, la communication stratégique, la coordination d'équipes, et la création de contenu visuel. En outre, j'ai cherché à renforcer mes soft skills, notamment mon sens de l'organisation, ma capacité d'adaptation, ma facilité à travailler en équipe et ma créativité.

I recently competed online in a course introducing the world of diamonds, and it was fascinating to explore these extraordinary gems. Diamonds are prized for their hardness, brilliance, and rarity, forming deep in the Earth’s mantle from carbon under extreme pressure and temperature. Trace elements like nitrogen or boron can create colors from blue to pink, yellow, or even red, while synthetic diamonds are increasingly used in both industry and jewelry, with full disclosure of origin and treatments required.

Diamonds have captivated humans for millennia. Ancient India was the first source, supplying stones to royalties and empires, while later discoveries in Brazil, South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia transformed the global market. Famous diamonds like the Beau Sancy, Wittelsbach-Graff, Hope, and the Pink Star illustrate both historical significance and astronomical auction values.

Color, clarity, cut, and carat (the 4Cs) remain the key criteria for grading diamonds. Carat weight is crucial: one carat equals 0.2 grams, and even small differences can greatly affect value. Beyond their beauty, diamonds are a scientific marvel, revealing the Earth’s deep processes, and a cultural treasure, symbolizing power, wisdom, and eternal elegance.

I recently completed an online SSEF course on sapphires, which offered a fascinating introduction to these gemstones. Sapphires belong to the corundum family (Al₂O₃), like rubies, and appear in a wide range of colors. While the classic blue sapphire is the most famous, sapphires can also be pink, yellow, violet, green, brown, and even the rare padparadscha, a delicate blend of pink and orange highly prized in jewelry. The color of a sapphire comes from trace elements such as iron, titanium, and chromium, and some stones display special optical effects like pleochroism, asterism (star effect), or color change depending on the light.

Sapphires form in both magmatic and metamorphic rocks over millions of years. Major sources include Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, Tanzania, and historically Kashmir. Many sapphires are heat-treated to improve color and clarity, while other treatments, such as diffusion or fracture filling, can further enhance their appearance. Synthetic sapphires, first created by Auguste Verneuil in 1902, are widely produced but can be distinguished by trained gemologists.

Certain varieties are particularly notable. Pink sapphires and padparadscha sapphires are among the most sought-after, with padparadscha showing subtle hues between pink and orange. Yellow sapphires are also valued, though some can exhibit color instability due to the nature of their trace elements. These varieties are often combined in multicolored jewelry, highlighting their brilliance and hardness.

Sapphires have a rich historical and cultural significance. From ancient Sri Lanka to the Romans and Byzantines, they were associated with wisdom, protection, and virtue. Famous sapphires, such as the Blue Belle of Asia (392 ct), the Catherine the Great Sapphire (331 ct) or the Royal Blue engagement ring of Princess Diana, illustrate their enduring allure. Studying sapphires provides insight not only into their beauty and gemology but also their geological, historical, and cultural journey.

I recently completed the online course “Introduction to the World of Rubies” offered by the Swiss Gemmological Institute, and it was fascinating to dive into the story of this “King of Precious Stones.” Rubies are the red variety of corundum, colored by traces of chromium, which replace some of the aluminum in the crystal structure. Their rich red hues range from deep crimson to lighter pinkish-red tones, while the most coveted are the intensely saturated reds, often called pigeon’s blood.

Rubies form under very specific geological conditions, where aluminum-rich rocks interact with chromium-bearing rocks. They are found in only a few locations worldwide, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Mozambique, and Tanzania. Famous deposits like the Mogok Stone Tract in Myanmar have produced some of the most iconic rubies known to collectors and jewelers.

From rough stone to cut gem, rubies undergo careful evaluation and shaping to reveal their best color and brilliance. Many rubies on the market today are treated—commonly by heating or filling fissures—to enhance their appearance, while high-quality, untreated rubies remain extremely rare and valuable.

Rubies have a rich history, admired across cultures for centuries. Ancient texts from Sri Lanka mention them, and they have been prized by royalty in Europe and Asia. Iconic rubies such as the Sunrise Ruby, the Hope Ruby, and the Graff Ruby illustrate the extraordinary value and allure of these stones in modern jewelry and auctions.

Scientific analysis plays a key role in understanding rubies. Techniques like UV-Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, and trace element analysis help gemologists identify natural stones, detect treatments, and even determine geographic origin. Inclusions within the ruby can also provide clues about its natural formation and history.

Overall, rubies are not only stunning gemstones but also remarkable scientific and cultural artifacts. Studying their color, origin, and treatment has deepened my appreciation for the complexity and beauty behind each stone.

I completed the free introductory course of the Jewelry Essentials program offered by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), through Module JE 1: Jewelry and Jewelry Manufacturing. This first module provides an overview of the fundamentals of jewelry, connecting materials, techniques, and manufacturing processes.

The module introduces precious metals used in jewelry, including gold, platinum, and silver, along with their essential properties such as malleability, durability, and metal memory. It also covers the concepts of fineness and alloying, explaining how different alloys affect the final characteristics of a piece.

The course explains regulations and markings for precious metals, including the evolution of hallmarking, quality marks, and rules governing the sale of jewelry and plated items. These elements are essential to understanding industry standards.

A significant portion of the module is dedicated to jewelry design and manufacturing methods, from traditional techniques like handcrafting and lost-wax casting to more industrial processes such as die striking, electroforming, and machining. The module also introduces the basics of enameling, highlighting key techniques and their use in contemporary jewelry.

This JE 1 module provided me with a comprehensive foundational understanding of jewelry manufacturing, linking materials, technical constraints, and design choices, and serves as a solid base to better grasp the crafts and know-how of the jewelry sector.

I also completed the free introductory course of the Diamond Essentials program offered by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), through Module DE 1: Diamonds and Diamond Value. This first module provides a foundational understanding of diamond properties and the criteria that determine their value.

The module begins by defining what a diamond is, distinguishing natural diamonds from lab-grown diamonds, and explaining their similarities and differences from a gemological perspective. It then introduces the 4Cs (Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight) the universal language used to evaluate diamonds.

Special attention is given to the impact of clarity and cut on a diamond’s value, showing how internal characteristics and cutting quality affect both the appearance and price of the stone. The course also covers how to communicate a diamond’s weight, a key aspect in the jewelry industry.

Finally, the module introduces the concept of durability, explaining why diamonds are considered exceptional due to their hardness, toughness, and stability, which account for their central role in jewelry and high jewelry.

This DE 1 module provided me with a structured foundational understanding of diamonds, their evaluation, and their specific terminology, forming a solid base for further gemological study.

I particularly enjoyed the exhibition Rêveries de pierres : Poésie et minéraux by Roger Caillois presented at L’École des Arts Joailliers. I found it fascinating to discover how certain minerals, when observed closely, can evoke real landscapes—mountains, horizons, and sometimes even almost dreamlike scenes.

Through Roger Caillois’ collection, one realizes how the way we look at a stone can transform matter into a source of imagination. These “picture stones” show that nature, long before any human intervention, already composes its own forms and narratives.

This exhibition reminded me that in jewelry, emotion often begins with this first encounter with the raw stone: a moment of observation in which the material itself suggests, inspires, and guides the creative process.

I recently completed the online course “Introduction to the World of Emeralds” offered by the Swiss Gemmological Institute, and I discovered how remarkable these gemstones truly are. Emerald is a variety of the mineral beryl, distinguished by its rich green color, which comes from traces of chromium and sometimes vanadium within the crystal structure.

From rough stone to polished gem, the journey of an emerald is fascinating. After extraction, gemologists evaluate the stone’s color, clarity, and structure before cutting and polishing it to bring out its brilliance. Emeralds often contain natural inclusions, known as jardin, which are part of the stone’s character and authenticity.

Emeralds are primarily sourced from Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, and Afghanistan, with each region producing stones with unique colors and qualities. Valued since antiquity for their beauty and association with royalty, emeralds have a long and storied history in jewelry and decorative arts.

Emeralds are graded mainly by their color, clarity, and cut, with the most prized stones exhibiting a deep, vivid green. Scientific analysis, including microscope observation and spectroscopy, helps gemologists identify natural emeralds and distinguish them from treated or synthetic stones.

I recently took the course “Introduction to the World of Tourmalines” offered by the Swiss Gemmological Institute, and I discovered just how fascinating these gemstones are. Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral, known for its wide range of colors and its trichroism, which sometimes allows a single crystal to show multiple shades.

From rough stone to polished gem, the journey of a tourmaline is impressive. After extraction, gemologists assess the stone’s color, clarity, and structure before cutting and polishing it to reveal its full brilliance and transparency. Tourmalines form in boron-rich igneous or metamorphic rocks, and their colors are directly influenced by the elements present during their formation.

Tourmalines are mainly sourced from Brazil, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Mozambique, with each region producing stones with unique characteristics. Valued since ancient times for their beauty and supposed protective properties, tourmalines gained particular popularity in the 19th century with the rise of colored jewelry.

Tourmalines come in almost every color. Some varieties have specific trade names: rubellite for red to pink, indicolite for blue, verdelite for green, and the very rare Paraíba for neon blue-green. Scientific analysis of these stones involves microscope observation, spectroscopy, and polarimetry, allowing gemologists to understand their composition and identify natural stones.

I had the opportunity to attend a conference at L’École des Arts Joailliers, led by Inezita Gay-Eckel, art historian, and Olivier Segura, gemologist. As someone passionate about gemstones and jewelry, this experience was particularly enriching.

I learned that some of the oldest diamonds date back 3.5 billion years, a fact that truly impressed me. Their complex geological formation gives them unique physical properties, setting them apart in the history of precious stones. The term “adamas,” meaning indomitable in Greek, perfectly reflects the extraordinary nature of these gems, known for being among the hardest materials on Earth.

The conference was structured in three parts. The first, “What Is a Diamond?”, allowed me to deepen my understanding of the chemical composition of diamonds, which are formed from pure carbon under extreme conditions of heat and pressure. I also learned about the distinction between natural diamonds and laboratory-grown diamonds, helping me better appreciate the rarity and complexity of each stone.

In the second part, “Where Do Diamonds Come From and How Are They Formed?”, the speakers explained the geological processes behind diamond formation, distinguishing between primary and secondary deposits. Diamonds form hundreds of kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface and are brought closer to the surface through volcanic eruptions. This part particularly fascinated me, as it revealed the deep natural history behind these precious stones.

Finally, the third part, “Diamonds Around the World,” highlighted the importance of diamond deposits in different regions and their cultural, economic, and artistic impact. I discovered how regions such as India, Africa, and South America have played a central role in the history of diamonds and their use in jewelry.

This conference not only strengthened my passion for precious gemstones but also allowed me to better understand the natural and cultural history of diamonds. It deepened my perspective on luxury and jewelry, a field where art and science meet in a unique way.

Curious and passionate, and after two years of professional experience in the footwear and leather goods industry, my fascination with materials and artisanal techniques recently led me to pursue training in textile patternmaking. Through an exploration of the Fornay Library in Paris, renowned for its specialized art and craft collections, I selected several books to deepen my knowledge and expand my expertise as a product manager. In this article, I share my journey through these pages, exploring the marriage of tradition and innovation in textile industrialization.

• Practical Guide to Textiles: Woven, Knitted, and Other Techniques – Daniel Weidmann: This comprehensive reference captivated my attention first. It details various weaving and knitting techniques, offering an in-depth overview of manufacturing processes. Through this resource, I gained a profound understanding of different textile textures and structures, a valuable asset for developing innovative products in my field.
• Textile Technology – Isabelle Brossard: Isabelle Brossard guided me through the complexities of textile technology, highlighting the technological advances that are transforming the industry. From smart fibers to technical textiles, this book explores innovations shaping the future of fashion and leather goods. Understanding these advancements equips me to integrate the latest technologies into my products and manufacturing processes.
• Garment Technology – Hannelore Eberle: Hannelore Eberle immersed me in the world of garment production, providing detailed insights into manufacturing processes and quality standards. By understanding production requirements and quality controls, I am able to ensure that my products meet the highest standards while staying at the forefront of fashion trends.
• Fashion: Textile Guide – Natural Fibers – Clive Hallett: Clive Hallett transported me into the world of natural fibers, exploring the unique qualities of cotton, wool, silk, and more. By understanding the intrinsic properties of these fibers, I can create products that combine aesthetic appeal with durability, while respecting the planet’s natural resources.
• Textilpedia: The Complete Fabric Guide: Finally, Textilpedia provided an exhaustive reference covering a wide variety of fabrics and manufacturing techniques. This textile encyclopedia allowed me to explore new horizons, stimulating creativity and broadening my perspective within the fashion industry.

Through my visit to the Fornay Library and the study of these invaluable texts, I have strengthened my knowledge and enriched my expertise as a product manager in fashion. By understanding materials and industrialization processes, I am better equipped to create innovative products that combine quality, durability, and style.

From a young age, my passion for artisanal craftsmanship and fashion has driven my desire to explore the inner workings of fashion shows. Drawn to excellence and precision, I embarked on a fascinating journey into a world where every stitch tells a unique story and every fabric conveys an emotion.

This passion led me to work as a Haute Couture Dressmaker for SS24 for renowned Houses such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Georges Chakra, and Rahul Mishra. In these exceptional ateliers, I was immersed in a universe where perfection is the standard and every gesture reflects precision and dedication. Handling pieces of rare beauty with the care of a true artisan, I learned to appreciate every detail and embroidery as a testament to the talent of the designers.

Eager to expand my experience, I then joined Women’s Ready-to-Wear FW24/25 for prestigious Houses such as Christian Dior Couture, Schiaparelli, Giambattista Valli, Zimmermann, and Miu Miu / Prada. This opportunity allowed me to explore a different side of the fashion world, where meticulousness and rigor are as essential as creativity and finesse.

Beyond the intricate fittings and the frantic preparations before shows, these experiences taught me invaluable lessons. I developed strong interpersonal skills by collaborating with diverse teams and learned to adapt to dynamic environments while maintaining composure under pressure.

Ultimately, these experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of the demands of Haute Couture and Ready-to-Wear, while refining my ability to coordinate effectively in high-pressure, creative contexts.

I had the opportunity to participate in a fascinating day dedicated to the discovery of nine métiers d’art, including Jewelry with DESRUES S.A.S., Exceptional Parure, Shoemaking with Massaro, Embroidery with Atelier Montex and Lesage Paris, Millinery with Maison Michel Paris, Couture with Paloma and Maison Lemarié, Corsetry with Eres, Goldsmithing with Goossens Paris (Chanel Group), Featherwork and Floral Art with Maison Lemarié, and Weaving with Lesage Paris.

From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in a world where craftsmanship and artistic trades come to life with boundless energy and creativity. I had the exceptional opportunity to explore nine different crafts, each more captivating than the last.

I met artisans at dedicated stands, eager to share their expertise and passion. I had the privilege of exchanging with experts in jewelry, embroidery, couture, millinery, and many other domains. Their stories and techniques amazed me, revealing the richness and diversity of the métiers d’art.

Throughout the day, I participated in hands-on workshops, experiencing the ancestral gestures that bring these exceptional creations to life—particularly in featherwork, embroidery, and goldsmithing. Guided by passionate artisans, I discovered the precision and attention to detail required to master these crafts, while also exploring my own creativity.

In parallel, I attended inspiring discussions organized by Le Monde, which highlighted the vitality and dynamism of artistic trades, as well as the diversity of career paths and opportunities they offer.

This day left a deep impression on me and strengthened my passion for artisanal craftsmanship and the métiers d’art. It allowed me to explore a world rich in creativity and innovation, where every gesture reflects tradition and excellence. I left the event inspired, enriched, and more determined than ever to explore the possibilities offered by these exceptional crafts.

Attending a conference on ostrich leather, hosted by the luxury leather goods company Nilau, was an incredibly enriching experience for me. As someone passionate about artisanal craftsmanship, leather, and luxury materials, delving into the rich and complex world of ostrich leather opened new perspectives and deepened my knowledge and skills in this fascinating field.

Ostrich leather, often regarded as the ultimate symbol of luxury and exclusivity, was explored in depth during the conference. Learning about its distinctive characteristics—from its unique texture marked by the feather follicles, to its striking visual and tactile appeal, and its remarkable aesthetic versatility—was truly eye-opening.

The detailed explanation of the manufacturing process and artisanal techniques involved in transforming ostrich leather left a strong impression on me. Understanding the precision and skill required to handle this material while preserving its quality and durability deepened my respect for artisans in the luxury leather industry.

The wide range of applications for ostrich leather—from fashion accessories such as bags and belts, to furniture pieces and even haute couture garments—highlighted the material’s importance and value in the world of luxury.

I was particularly inspired by how Nilau combines ostrich leather with other high-quality materials, such as linen and fur, to enhance its unique qualities while maintaining its prestige and tradition. This demonstrates a remarkable level of expertise and innovation.

More than ever, this conference reinforced my belief that leather—especially ostrich leather—is more than just a material. It is a true art form, a subtle marriage of tradition and modernity, quality and aesthetics.

In conclusion, this experience was a true source of inspiration, broadening my horizons in the field of leather and luxury leather goods. It fueled my passion and commitment to this exquisite craftsmanship and provided me with the knowledge and confidence to continue my journey in this fascinating industry.

I had the incredible opportunity to be selected for a unique experience: an exclusive visit to the headquarters of Jean Paul Gaultier. This exceptional opportunity allowed me to immerse myself in the world of fashion and discover the fascinating backstage of this iconic couture house.

During the visit, I had the chance to see the legendary runway room, explore the workshops where iconic pieces are created, and visit the offices where the team works tirelessly to bring Jean Paul Gaultier’s vision to life. These privileged moments offered a unique insight into the creative process and the vibrant energy of this artistic universe.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the engaging exchanges with the Maison’s creative team. Sharing their ideas, passion, and expertise was an invaluable source of inspiration. These discussions were enriching not only professionally but also personally, giving me a deeper understanding of the intricacies of their design and production process.

I also had the chance to participate in an exciting moodboard workshop, where we collaboratively imagined and designed a Jean Paul Gaultier pop-up. This creative session was truly stimulating—combining ideas and creativity to develop innovative and inspiring concepts while exploring the brand’s unique aesthetic.

This memorable day was a true celebration of creativity in all its forms. It offered me an immersive experience within one of the world’s most iconic fashion houses and inspired me to pursue my own creative aspirations with passion and determination.

I had the opportunity to attend a series of conferences on French gastronomic culture, led by renowned experts:

• "French Gastronomic Culture: Origins, System, Debates" by Pascal Ory, Académie Française
• "Brillat-Savarin, True Inventor of Gastronomy" by Jean-Robert Pitte, Honorary Secretary of the Académie des sciences morales et politiques
• "Antonin Carême: Pastry Chef, Cook, Architect" by François Chaslin, Correspondent of the Académie des beaux-arts
• "Portraits of Chefs" by Jean Vitaux, Correspondent of the Académie des sciences morales et politiques
• "Romanticism and Gastronomy" by Xavier Darcos, Chancellor of the Institut de France
• "Gourmet Architectures" by Jean-Claude Ribaut, Architect and Gastronomic Critic
• "A Science of Nature Explores Cuisine: Molecular and Physical Gastronomy" by Hervé This, Physicochemist, INRAE-AgroParisTech International Centre for Molecular Gastronomy
• "Women in the French Culinary Universe" by Anne-Sophie Pic, 3-Michelin-Star Chef and Owner

These conferences offered a comprehensive view of French gastronomy, from its historical roots and iconic figures to contemporary innovations and the role of women in the culinary world.