Deuxieme Classe | ドゥーズィエム クラス オフィシャルサイト

EN

TOP ISSUE Inside HARPO Jewelry Designer Interview

ISSUE
Inside HARPO
Jewelry Designer Interview

Posted on : Jun 18 , 2026

Jewelry brand HARPO.
In this interview, we explore the origins of creation and the philosophy behind the craftsmanship through a conversation with Dorothée Zuliani, daughter of the founder and current owner of HARPO.


 

Could you tell us the story of how HARPO began 50 years ago?

In 1971, my father, Gérard Nadeau, was 25 years old. With neither a job nor a title to his name, he decided to start his own company and called it “HARPO,” inspired by Harpo Marx of the famous Marx Brothers.

Everything began in a small garage in Paris. At first, he worked as a clothing designer, but during a trip to the United States, he discovered Native American jewelry and was immediately captivated by its beauty and craftsmanship.

As his travels continued, he visited the Navajo Nation and fell in love with the vast landscapes of the American West and the spirit of freedom that defined them. He was also introduced to the rich tradition of turquoise among the Pueblo and Navajo peoples. Revered as a symbol of spirituality, protection, and prosperity, turquoise held a profound cultural significance that deeply resonated with him.

As his travels continued, my father visited the Navajo Nation and became captivated by the vast landscapes of the American West and the spirit of freedom that seemed to define them. He was also introduced to the rich turquoise traditions of the Pueblo and Navajo peoples. For them, turquoise is far more than a decorative stone—it symbolizes spirituality, prosperity, and protection, and holds a special place within their culture.

Each time he returned from the United States, he brought back jewelry created by Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and Pueblo artisans, which he began presenting in his fashion shows. The response was extraordinary. As the hippie movement was beginning to gain momentum in France, the authenticity, craftsmanship, and symbolism of Native American jewelry resonated deeply with a growing audience and captured the imagination of many.

As interest in Native American jewelry continued to grow, my father opened the first HARPO boutique in Paris’s Marais district. Word spread through magazine features and personal recommendations, and before long, renowned figures such as Johnny Hallyday, Renaud, and Eddy Mitchell were among its visitors.

In 1997, HARPO moved to its current location on Rue de Turbigo. With more space to showcase an ever-growing collection, the boutique gradually became a special destination for those who share a passion for Native American jewelry and art.

Many people once believed that Native American jewelry was simply a passing trend. Time has proven otherwise.

More than fifty years later, HARPO continues to welcome visitors from around the world. What they seek is not merely jewelry, but that one special piece—a piece that carries history, craftsmanship, and a story of its own.

From free spirits and elegant women to Harley-Davidson riders, HARPO’s clientele is remarkably diverse. Yet they all share a deep appreciation for the exceptional artistry of Native American craftsmen and a lasting fascination with turquoise, a stone long revered for its beauty and spiritual significance.

It is this timeless appeal—passed down through generations and untouched by changing fashions—that continues to make HARPO a truly unique place today.

Could you tell us about your creative process?

For decades, we have traveled across the vast landscapes of the American West, visiting pueblos and trading posts while building relationships founded on trust and mutual respect. Along the way, we have met talented Native American artists and craftsmen whose families have been creating jewelry for generations.

By visiting these communities four to five times a year, we have developed deep friendships and long-lasting bonds of trust. While respecting each artist’s traditions and creative approach, we work together to create pieces that reflect both our own vision and the wishes of our customers.

Our greatest strength lies in these relationships.

My father once worked with the parents and grandparents of many of the artisans we collaborate with today. I, in turn, learned valuable lessons and life philosophies from those elders. Today, I work with their children and grandchildren. In many ways, their story has become part of our own family history.

I joined my father—who is still our boss—in 1996, and I was immediately drawn into this fascinating world.

One of the greatest joys of our work is seeing a piece of jewelry come to life and eventually find its way to someone who truly connects with it. We believe that certain pieces are simply meant to meet the people who wear them.

Every finished piece reflects the unique skill, personality, and artistic sensibility of its maker. No two creations are ever exactly alike.

That individuality is at the heart of Native American jewelry, and it is what continues to inspire our passion for this work every day.

What values and beliefs guide your work?

Above all, the most important thing for us is to enjoy what we do.

That is something my father has always taught me:

“Don’t be swayed by other people’s opinions. Trust your instincts.”

It really is that simple.

Our greatest wish is for everyone involved in this journey to be happy. We want the Native American artisans we work with to take pride and joy in their craft. We are honored to present their remarkable creations in HARPO, our little “jewelry box.” And most importantly, we want our customers to leave with a smile.

If, through HARPO, people can catch even a glimpse of the vast landscapes of the American West—the dry desert air, the endless horizons, and the cultures and stories that have shaped them—then we could ask for nothing more.

For us, the goal is not simply to sell jewelry. It is to share the stories, traditions, and spirit embodied in each piece, and to invite our customers to become part of that journey.

Do you have close relationships with Native American communities?

Yes, absolutely.

Over the years, we have built deep and lasting relationships with Native American artisans. What began as a professional collaboration has grown into genuine friendship.

Thanks to the trust we have developed, we have occasionally been invited to attend traditional dances and ceremonies that are not normally open to outsiders. We have learned a great deal from these experiences, but perhaps the most valuable lesson has been learning to understand and respect one another’s cultures and ways of life.

And above all, we laugh together—a lot. That may be the most rewarding part of these relationships.

Of course, there are challenges as well. One of the most difficult is learning to be patient. Creating a piece of jewelry takes time, and there are moments when our vision and an artisan’s interpretation do not immediately align.

Over the years, however, I have come to embrace a simple idea:

If things are not unfolding as planned, perhaps it is simply not the right time yet.

When I was younger, that was not always easy to accept. Today, I understand it much better.

That is why we continue to visit the communities we work with on a regular basis. We meet face to face, share sketches, exchange ideas, and take the time to discuss each project carefully. The artisans have families, responsibilities, and lives of their own.

Rather than rushing the process, we prefer to develop each piece together through dialogue, trust, and mutual respect. For us, that time is not separate from the work—it is an essential part of it.

Is there a particular piece or story that has stayed with you over the years?

That is a very difficult question.

Every piece has its own charm and its own story.

The pieces that mean the most to me are often the ones whose discovery I remember vividly. Life is full of unexpected encounters—you may set out searching for one thing and end up finding something completely different, or stumble upon a remarkable piece in the most unexpected place.

Those moments of serendipity are one of the greatest joys of this work.

Among all the jewelry I have encountered, I have always been especially drawn to pieces created using the inlay technique. The precision and skill involved never cease to amaze me. Perhaps it is because I know I could never create something like that myself that I have such deep admiration for the artisans who can.

There are also pieces that simply defy explanation. They do not need a story or a description. Their presence alone is enough. They possess a perfect balance, a natural beauty, and a quiet power that immediately captures your attention.

It is not something that can be explained logically—it is something you feel.

And it is precisely that kind of jewelry that I love most.

What are your dreams and vision for the future?

To continue giving the very best of ourselves, with the same passion, for as long as possible.

Have there been any books or music that have particularly influenced you?

Yes, absolutely.

If I trace it back to the beginning, it all starts with the Spaghetti Westerns I watched as a child.

The films of Sergio Leone, and especially My Name Is Nobody—a favorite in our family—still hold a special place in my heart today.

I was captivated by everything about them: the vast landscapes, the beautiful cinematography and costumes, and of course the unforgettable music of Ennio Morricone.

For me, those films embodied the America I have always loved—an untamed and majestic land shaped by the pursuit of freedom. It is a world that continues to inspire and fascinate me.

Through my work, I have also learned a great deal about Native American cultures, histories, and traditional craftsmanship. The more I discover, the more I am fascinated by the depth of meaning and heritage behind each piece.

As for books, I believe that Jim Harrison is one of the writers who most beautifully captures the essence and spirit of America. In his work, I find the landscapes, values, and sense of freedom that I have always admired.

His writing reflects the America that continues to inspire me today.

What is your greatest treasure?

In truth, I do not own a large collection of jewelry.

(For us, the real treasure is HARPO itself—a large jewelry box filled with stories, memories, and remarkable creations.)

That said, there are three pieces that are especially precious to me.

The first is a watch featuring an inlaid “H” made of lapis lazuli and turquoise. I discovered it during my first travels through the American West, and I still wear it today. The dial incorporates a collector’s stamp depicting the great Native American leader Sitting Bull, which my father integrated into the piece nearly forty years ago.

The second is a Navajo bracelet set with five beautiful Pilot Mountain turquoise stones. It was originally intended for a Swiss customer, but the sale never happened. I tried it on one day, and from that moment on, I simply could not part with it.

The third is a Zuni “Rainbow Dancer” Kachina ring. One day, among many pieces displayed in a showcase, this ring immediately caught my eye. The size was not quite right, but I wanted it so badly that I found my own way to make it wearable. To this day, it remains one of my most treasured possessions, and I know I will never let it go.

Every piece carries its own story and its own moment of discovery. That is why, for me, jewelry is far more than an ornament—it is a keeper of memories, a reminder of journeys taken, and a witness to the encounters that shape a life.

Of all the places you have visited, which country or destination has left the strongest impression on you?

That is a difficult question, as I have traveled extensively throughout my life.

Some of my most cherished memories come from road trips across the United States, exploring ghost towns and small rural communities. I always try to avoid highways and take the smaller roads instead. The scenery is often more beautiful, and it is there that you discover a more authentic, unfiltered side of America.

I have also traveled extensively throughout Asia, often by motorcycle. Traveling this way brings you closer to people and allows you to venture far beyond the usual routes. Thanks to these journeys, I was able to meet extraordinary people in remote areas of Laos, the mountains of northern Vietnam, and Cambodia before it became a major tourist destination.

These experiences were far more than simple travel. They were life-changing. The people I met taught me humility, while the roads themselves—sometimes breathtaking, sometimes dangerous—reminded me of both the greatness of nature and the small place we occupy within it.

In South America, Peru left a particularly strong impression on me. I was fascinated by the history and achievements of the Inca civilization. While I could see certain parallels with Native American cultures in North America, it was also a unique and powerful civilization in its own right. The richness of the Andean world, and especially the wonder of Machu Picchu, was simply unforgettable.

Looking back, however, it is not only the landscapes that remain with me. The true treasures of my travels are the people I met along the way—the moments spent sharing their lives, learning from their perspectives, and discovering different ways of seeing the world. Those encounters have shaped me far more than any destination ever could.

Are there any places in Japan that you particularly enjoy or return to often?

To be honest, I still do not know Japan very well. I have only visited twice so far, and both trips were mainly spent in Tokyo.

The first time was simply out of curiosity, when I spent a few days there with my colleague Fred. My second visit was for a trunk show I had been invited to attend. During that trip, I also had the chance to visit Hakone and try to see Mount Fuji. In reality, it only appeared for a few seconds through a break in the clouds, but I still remember how happy I was to catch even a glimpse of it.

I would love to return to Japan someday. Next time, I would like to travel beyond the major cities and spend more time exploring the countryside and rural regions at a slower pace.

What fascinates me most about Japan is the spirit of its people. I must admit that I have always had a certain admiration for the samurai tradition. Their discipline, mental strength, and sense of honor are qualities I deeply respect. In some ways, I feel there are similarities to the values I have encountered among Native American communities.

How do you spend your days off? How do you recharge?

Whenever possible, I like to spend my free time away from the noise and crowds of the city.

Sometimes I retreat to a small cabin in the countryside outside Paris, where I enjoy simple activities such as lighting a fire, chopping wood, or repairing things with my hands. Those quiet moments are incredibly important to me.

I also love to travel, so discovering new places is one of the best ways for me to recharge. Walking through unfamiliar landscapes and meeting new people always brings fresh inspiration and a new perspective.

When I have the time, I enjoy drawing as well. Although, to be completely honest, I am also very fond of afternoon naps (laughs), so they often win the competition.

Above all, however, I value spending time with my family and friends.

Being surrounded by nature, traveling, drawing, and sharing meaningful conversations with the people I care about—these simple pleasures are what give me new energy and keep me inspired.

They remind me that some of the most valuable moments in life are often the simplest ones.

Do you think jewelry changes depending on the person who wears it?

Absolutely. Jewelry can take on a completely different character depending on the person who wears it.

The very same piece can create a different impression depending on how it is styled, what it is paired with, and the personality of the wearer. It can become the focal point of an outfit or blend seamlessly into a more understated look.

One of the things I love most about Native American jewelry is its versatility. It can be worn with casual clothing, elegant attire, rock-inspired fashion, or a bohemian style. It adapts naturally to many different forms of self-expression.

That is why our customers are so diverse. People of all ages, professions, and lifestyles are drawn to the same pieces, yet each of them wears them in a completely unique way.

For me, a piece of jewelry is never truly finished when it leaves the artisan’s hands. It becomes complete only when someone wears it and makes it their own.

The moment a piece finds its wearer, it acquires a new personality, a new story, and a new meaning. That transformation is what I find most fascinating about jewelry. It is not simply an object—it is a dialogue between the maker, the wearer, and the life that unfolds around it.

What does jewelry mean to you?

Jewelry has been a very important part of my life.

Over the years, I have seen countless pieces from all over the world. Each one reflects a unique culture, history, and craftsmanship, and every encounter has taught me something new.

But for me, jewelry is far more than an ornament. In many ways, it feels like an extension of oneself.

Sometimes we are drawn to a piece because of its design or the beauty of its stones. Other times, it is something less tangible—a feeling, an instant connection the moment we see it. The meaning of a piece is deeply personal. For some, it may serve as a talisman that brings confidence and strength. For others, it may carry memories, emotions, or remind them of a special moment in their lives.

What matters most is how it makes you feel when you wear it. Jewelry should feel comfortable, natural, and somehow become a part of who you are.

In fact, some of our customers tell us that they feel almost naked without their jewelry. I understand that feeling very well. If I forget the watch I wear every day, I immediately feel as though something important is missing.

That is why I believe jewelry is not simply an object. It is a reflection of personality, emotion, and memory—a deeply personal companion that becomes part of the story of the person who wears it.


 

<HARPO>

BANGLE ¥20,900 ~ ¥286,000

RING ¥85,800~ ¥143,000

NECKLACE ¥154,000~¥297,000

 

 


ABOUT 「HARPO」

HARPO is a Native American jewelry company founded in Paris in 1971. Built on more than five decades of trusted relationships with Native American artists and artisans from the American Southwest, HARPO has dedicated itself to sharing the beauty of authentic turquoise jewelry and traditional craftsmanship with the world.

For over 50 years, the company has worked closely with generations of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and Pueblo silversmiths, celebrating their artistry while helping preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage behind each piece. Today, HARPO remains a destination for those seeking not only exceptional jewelry, but also the stories, traditions, and spirit that make every creation unique.

 

OFFICIAL SITE

INSTAGRAM