San Francisco - January 11, 2005

Agor-a-philia

Vicente Agor Jewelry

As Nietzsche famously observed, what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.

And, in the case of jeweler Vicente Agor, it also makes us do some very unusual things.

Agor was a lawyer working as a financial advisor in corporate America whose life seemed right on track. But after kidney and pancreas failure and a successful transplant (talk about life-changing), he decided to ditch his corporate job and follow his dream of becoming a jewelry designer.

The outcome? A stunning line of baubles made from eighteen-karat gold. His first collection of sculptural and textural necklaces and earrings are timeless works of art. Want to make a bold statement? Go for the Diamond Rondelle Crossover necklace. For a more sophisticated look, the Double Corset necklace will do the trick. And for those who like a bit of color, the Swirl Enhancer necklace is a beauty.

Of course, you’ll have to save your pennies to afford one. But think of it this way: The discipline will make you stronger.

Available at Nob Hill Spa in the Huntington Hotel, 1075 California Street, between Taylor and Mason Streets (415-345-2888); and Saks Fifth Avenue, 384 Post Street, at Powell Street (415-986-4300). To see styles, go to vicenteagor.com.