Maria João Bahia

Born into a family of artists, Maria João Bahia developed an early passion for the world of art and design. Her earliest childhood memory is at her father’s studio, signing her name on one of his sculptures with excitement. Possessing unique qualities and a strong vocation for the “art of alchemy”, Maria decided to leave law school in the early 1980s and embrace her dream. She started an intensive apprenticeship in jewellery workshops. At the time, she was the only woman in the factory. She was fascinated by the secrets of jewellery craftsmanship, and passionate about working hard to learn them. A few years later, the opportunity arose to take over a small workshop in Rua da Madalena in Lisbon, and Maria realized her dream of launching her own brand.

Today, Maria João Bahia celebrates over 35 years as a jeweller and continues to love every moment. Her jewellery carries profound symbolism, with emotions and feelings. She has built a name in Portugal and abroad with her unique pieces of art. Maria and her team work out of 102 Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon, a beautiful five-story heritage building where the brand’s activity is centralized. The workshop is Maria’s creative refuge, and where she can be found if she is not meeting clients or away exhibiting at an international fair. Besides jewellery, Maria has also worked on an array of special projects, including creating a reliquary for the Pope, trophies for the Portuguese Golden Globes, and gastro jewellery for Michelin-starred restaurants.