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The Materialist : A Podcast from At Present
The Materialist : Mirta de Gisbert
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The Materialist : Mirta de Gisbert

Jewelry as Storytelling : A Conversation with Mirta de Gisbert

In the latest episode of The Materialist, Marc Bridge sits down with Mirta de Gisbert, a jewelry consultant and gemologist whose life and work are deeply intertwined with the stories behind every piece she encounters.

From her multicultural upbringing in Spain and South Africa to her deeply personal connection to family heirlooms, Mirta shares how jewelry transcends adornment to become a medium of memory, empowerment, and legacy.

Highlights from the episode include:

  • The story behind Mirta’s most treasured piece—a Himba bracelet made of PVC. (Below in white)

  • How her father’s work as a metal trader sparked her lifelong fascination with gemstones and minerals. See the “rock collection” from her childhood below.

  • Why she designed the “Kupula” ring and what it means to wear her own creations.

  • Her philosophy on helping clients find jewelry that resonates deeply and personally.

  • The rising interest in vintage and antique jewelry among younger collectors.

Whether you’re a jewelry enthusiast or simply curious about the stories that objects can tell, this episode offers a deeply human and inspiring perspective on the art of adornment.

Mirta highlighted three very cool things more people should know about. They were:

  • Alessandro Florio

    • Who: Sicilian tattoo artist turned painter.

    • Why: His art features captivating colors and emotional depth that resonate deeply with Mirta.

    • What to Explore: His vibrant and evocative paintings.

  • Casa Chiqui

    • Who: A boutique in Cartagena, Colombia, showcasing treasures from around the globe.

    • Why: Mirta loves their curated collection of unique pieces, including her own pair of red pom earrings that she says make her feel instantly confident.

    • What to Explore: Their eclectic mix of jewelry, decor, and accessories.

  • The Nod

    • Who: An online magazine focused on contemporary stories through an Indian lens.

    • Why: Mirta admires their thoughtful storytelling and insights on culture, fashion, and design.

    • What to Explore: Their blend of modern narratives and cultural depth.

Discussion about this podcast

At Present’s Substack
The Materialist : A Podcast from At Present
An exploration of material culture with At Present Founder Marc Bridge.
Marc is a Materialist. He loves things -- the things artists make, the things we sell, the things we make part of our our lives.
But he was conflicted.
Why do things matter? Why do creative people dedicate their lives to crafting them? What does it mean to obsess about what we buy, wear, and put in our homes. Are we destroying our planet, our children, and ourselves through this obsession?


The Materialist Podcast is an exploration of this and so much more. Join us for conversations with the world's best jewelry designers, stylists, influencers, admirers, environmentalists, academics, and a bunch of just interesting people.