Few names in Toronto’s custom jewellery scene are as well-known, respected, and exciting as Solitaire x Alex Armen. The Jewellery Editor recently called the studio “Toronto’s sanctuary for creative jewellery“. It continues to redefine modern craftsmanship by seamlessly combining art, cutting-edge technology, and deeply personal storytelling.
Solitaire x Alex Armen stands apart from other jewellers in a city known for its design culture, innovation, and multicultural vibrancy. It is a creative studio that focuses solely on making custom fine jewellery.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship Based on Tradition, Reimagined for Today
The legacy of Solitaire x Alex Armen has evolved through the years. Vartan Khanjian started Solitaire in 1983 as a behind-the-scenes manufacturer for some of the biggest jewellery stores. In 1992, almost ten years later, the family made a significant decision: they would discontinue large-scale production and focus exclusively on custom orders.
This important change set the stage for the studio today, with a focus on accuracy, uncompromising quality, and complete artistic freedom. The brand is strong because it has a dual heritage: decades of experience in making high-end products and new ideas in design. Few custom jewellers can achieve this balance.
The Creative Minds Behind the Brand
The studio’s heart is the strong bond between two brothers, each an expert in a different area of the craft.
Alex Armen – Artistic Director and Designer
Alex sees jewellery as both art and science. He is a sculptor at heart and a technologist by trade, and he believes in one main idea:
“Quality is everything.”
Every design is carefully considered, from its strength and comfort to its meaning and durability. This approach allows the studio to focus on each creation without distraction, ensuring every design is built to last a lifetime and beyond.
Arbi Khanjian – Business Director and Gem Expert
Arbi is responsible for sourcing gemstones and maintaining client relationships, leveraging the global connections his father established. Some of the world’s finest diamonds and coloured gemstones are available to Solitaire x Alex Armen. Many of these stones come from Idar-Oberstein, Germany, which is known for its high-quality gemstone cutting.
Clients choose their stones, which is not common in fine jewellery. This makes each piece more transparent, trustworthy, and emotionally connected.
Why Solitaire x Alex Armen Is the Best Place for Custom Jewellery in Toronto
1. Fully Custom, from Idea to Finish
Every design starts with a private consultation in the studio. Once approved, the piece remains in the Toronto workshop for the entire 2–4-week creation process. This ensures full quality control, privacy, and integrity of craftsmanship from start to finish.
2. New Technology Meets Handmade Art
The studio was among the first to adopt CAD and digital modelling, and it leverages cutting-edge technology to achieve exceptional accuracy. These tools complement traditional methods such as hand-engraving, gemstone setting, sawing, filing, and polishing to produce jewellery that is both beautiful and structurally sound.
3. High-End Craft Rooted in Authenticity
The studio is an all-black, functional workshop with an art-house look and sits at the top of Toronto’s jewelry-making hierarchy. The brothers think that authenticity, creative energy, and focus are more important than flashy displays.
4. Jewellery with a Story
Each piece has meaning. There are storytelling elements in the metal itself, from symbolic engagement rings to bold cocktail designs inspired by warriors. The 33-carat peridot “Warrior Woman” ring is a well-known example. People love it for its intricate craftsmanship and strong symbolism. This shows that every piece is as unique as it is expressive.
Engagement Rings That Are More Than You Expected
Couples looking for custom engagement rings in Toronto can get a very personal and open experience at Solitaire x Alex Armen:
- Working directly with Alex on the design process
- Only the best diamonds and gemstones available
- Designs made for comfort and long-lasting wear
- All of the work is done in-house, from melting gold to polishing it
The result is an engagement ring that feels personal, meaningful, and worthy of passing down.
A Studio for Clients Who Want More Than a Ring
Clients often say that Solitaire x Alex Armen is a place where they feel seen, heard, and valued, not just like another transaction. The brothers’ warmth, honesty, and real interest in each client’s story help build long-lasting relationships based on trust and shared creativity.
The experience is just as important as the final piece, whether you’re celebrating a milestone, remembering someone, or showing off your personality through wearable art.
Conclusion: Toronto’s Most Trusted Custom Jeweller
Solitaire x Alex Armen is one of Toronto’s best bespoke jewellery stores, recognized internationally for its years of experience and strong commitment to quality.
If you’re looking for:
- Custom engagement rings in Toronto
- Custom-made fine jewellery
- Heirloom pieces made by designers
- Unique works of art with a purpose
Solitaire x Alex Armen is the most trusted and creatively inspiring destination.