A Note From Willy

You’re a third-generation jeweler, correct? What are your earliest memories of being around jewelry? How did that shape your own practice?

I’m actually fourth-generation, at least as far back as I could trace my mom’s side of the family tree. My earliest memory is being in the workshop as a kid, watching them melt gold to be cast. I remember all these people handling sparkly things, the alchemy of creation, while I was just running around playing. That environment shaped my eye and gave me a sense of family and teamwork, in a very Mexican way.

Have you brought any aspects of your family traditions? Or have you intentionally broken away?

I had to break away. Their style was too classic, too traditional, the workshop has been running for more than 75 years. With VARON, the whole point is inclusivity at every level. That ethos runs through the design, the materials, the balance. The pieces are meant to hold a balanced proportion, a kind of harmony that can be worn by anyone.

How does Mexico City influence your work and creative process?

Mexico City is a cultural monster, alive, chaotic, surreal. You can’t escape it. You’re constantly submerged and overwhelmed by it, and I kind of love that. The way I navigate life is very tuned to the city’s pulse.

Where do you find inspiration? How does that influence your design?

It depends what I’m working on. Mostly art, especially ancient art. This summer I was at Hamburger Bahnhof in Berlin and Jeremy Shaw’s video installation nearly made me cry. It stayed with me for days. I love when art gives me hope, especially now.

How do you balance preserving traditional methods with originality?

I use everything. Sometimes it starts with a photo on my phone that becomes a sketch, then an object. Sometimes I sculpt in wax, that’s still our main way of working. But I’ll also model or scan in 3D. I embrace whatever process helps the piece exist.

What does “masculinity” mean to you? How does it manifest in your work?

Masculinity is energy, a vibe. For me it’s about being reliant, confident, decisive, maybe a little dominant. VARON as a word is an old Spanish term for “male,” but for me it’s an invitation: for masculinity in all its forms to feel comfortable wearing us.

Do you think men are re-learning how to adorn themselves?

Absolutely. I love this new evolution of masculinity; open, fluid, experimental. I’m here for it, and I’m happy to contribute to that shift.

What do you hope someone feels when they wear one of your pieces?

That they made a smart choice. Our pieces carry a lot of thought and intelligence; sometimes, a single piece or collection takes two or three years. You’re not just buying jewelry, you’re buying into that time, care, intention, and energy. 

What was the last thing in your Google search?

I was in Marseille, and a friend told me youporn and porn were banned in France. I Googled it, and it turns out to be true. 

What’s the weirdest thing in your trash can?

Gold. That’s probably the strangest. We try to save and repurpose all the dust and particles in the workshop, but sometimes it just disappears, gold literally turns to dust.

What’s something you never leave the house without?

My phone, my jewelry, and my keys. I’m simple. But if I need to dress it up? Swag. [laughs]

What is your ideal office?

A jungle of plants, a painting area, a workout area. Very ’80s vibes, with a shower, steam room, and a vintage phone in the bathroom. Plus a back studio for stone carving, with all the tools. Then I can carve, shower, and change in my office dressing room. Fab.