An Artist's Journey from Iran to California

Omid Sefat's story is one of perseverance, passion, and artistry, where ancient silversmithing traditions meet modern design and a constant drive to grow. Now a silversmith, jeweler, and antiques expert in Pasadena, California, Omid has built a career that honors his heritage while making his mark in the U.S. after over a decade of calling it home.

Omid’s journey began in Iran, where his interest in silversmithing was sparked at the tender age of nine. "My brother invited me to join him in his workshop to learn silversmithing, but I wasn't drawn to the designs there. Instead, I was attracted to the ancient motifs of the Achaemenid and Sassanid empires. I began researching these designs, making replicas, and that sparked my interest in antiques," said Omid. This curiosity for antique craftsmanship led him not only to pursue silversmithing but also to immerse himself in the study of antiques and trade.

Raised in a family where craftsmanship was valued, Omid was surrounded by creativity and learning. His two brothers, who were in their 20s when Omid was a child, played an influential role in his early education. “We had a workshop in our house, and it became a place where I learned the fundamentals of the craft,” Omid says. 

Reflecting on his upbringing, Omid credits much of his growth to the positive influences around him, particularly the environment he grew up in. “I learned from poems. I learned from good people there,” he reflects, noting how these influences shaped both his character and his creativity. This foundation of creativity laid the groundwork for his journey, while his active choice to distance himself from negativity helped foster both personal and professional transformation.

Later, under the guidance of master silversmith Akbar Sameti, Omid refined his skills and began to showcase his work in exhibitions, both in Iran and internationally. However, his artistic education did not stop there. While Omid’s early training was formal, he describes himself as mostly self-educated, continually learning and growing through mentorship and personal exploration. Music, in particular, played a crucial role in his development. “Music was part of our lives,” Omid shares, recounting how he was introduced to playing instruments by his grandfather and later expanded his musical skills on his own. This lifelong connection to music and poetry informs his art to this day.

Despite his early successes, Omid’s journey took a significant turn when he moved to the United States in 2013. Facing a new culture and language barrier, the transition was not easy. “It wasn’t an easy journey,” he reflects. But Omid’s determination never wavered. He worked multiple jobs, including driving for Uber, to make ends meet, all while continuing to pursue his passion for silversmithing.

Omid’s persistence paid off, and in 2017, he founded Doyen’s LLC, an antique business based in Pasadena. Combining his love for antique pieces with his growing expertise in jewelry, Omid built a space that allows him to curate rare items while also creating meaningful, handcrafted jewelry pieces. Today, Doyen’s LLC hosts auctions and offers consignments from around the world, expanding Omid’s reach and influence within the art and antique community.

Omid’s jewelry creations stand out for their deep connection to history, culture, and personal meaning. His designs are not just decorative; they aim to tell stories and provoke thought. “I want my pieces to be mindful and captivating, not just flashy. When people wear them, I want them to ask, ‘What does this mean?’” he shares. One such creation, a double-sided necklace called Mindset, symbolizes the power of positivity and resilience. One side reads, “Mindset is everything,” while the other reminds the wearer that “Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.” 

His dedication to craftsmanship and creative exploration is evident in every piece he designs. For Omid, the creative process is deeply personal. “I design the pieces in my head, and sometimes it takes days or weeks to get it right,” he explains. “But when I see it come together, when the design and the craftsmanship meet, that’s the most satisfying part.” Drawing a parallel between his music and his jewelry design, Omid says, “Design is like music notes,” emphasizing the importance of harmony and meaning in both disciplines. For him, creating a piece of jewelry is like composing a song—it should convey more than just technical skill; it should tell a story and evoke emotion.

While Omid’s work is rooted in tradition, he blends modern design elements with antique techniques, creating a unique fusion that is distinctly his own. He describes his current collection, the Canvas Collection or Boom Collection (meaning “canvas” in Farsi), as a reflection of this fusion. For Omid, silver serves as a canvas, and the gold designs he applies are like the strokes of a painter.

“I want to create pieces that make people think. I don’t want them to be just accessories. They should carry a message and inspire,” Omid says. His philosophy on jewelry mirrors his perspective on life: jewelry, much like one’s mindset, can be a powerful force that shapes the wearer’s experience and outlook.

As Omid continues his journey in both silversmithing and the antique world, he remains focused on his ultimate goal: to create work that speaks to people and stands the test of time. “Handmade jewelry has energy,” he says. “It’s not about the material; it’s about the story, the love, and the thought behind it.” His philosophy shines through his work, which is a testament to his passion, consistency, and creative vision.