Liza Borzaya: Get to Know the Russian Designer Unlike Any Other

June 5, 2018

By Katerina Perez

5 min read

The transformation of jewellery from dream into reality is a fascinating journey into the nature of beauty, for the customer and the designer alike. Several years ago, Elizaveta Borzunova, who had worked for international brands in the Russian jewellery market, decided to share her own design ideas by creating her brand Liza Borzaya, and that’s how it all started…

It all began back in 2010 with a simple and understandable desire known to women the world over: the desire to purchase an unusual piece of jewellery for the special occasion of a friend’s wedding. At that time, Liza (short for Elizaveta) was already working in the jewellery industry, representing various jewellery companies at world exhibitions. Despite her expert ability to select unique pieces amongst the variety of jewels she encountered, the deeper she plunged into the subtleties of this multifaceted industry, the more obvious it became to her that what she wanted to see just wasn’t on offer.

Elizaveta Borzunova, founder of Liza Borzaya in her enamel and diamond 'Swallow' palm bracelet

Elizaveta Borzunova, founder of Liza Borzaya in her enamel and diamond 'Swallow' palm bracelet

The Russian designer then decided to manifest the unique piece she was holding in her mind’s eye by picking up a pencil; because every item of her jewellery begins with a sketch. One stroke led to another – and before she knew it – there on the paper was the outline of a flock of flying birds, united on a bracelet to sit boldly on the outer side of the palm. And thus the ‘Swallows’ bracelet from Liza Borzaya appeared; gaining the admiration not only of its creator, but practically everyone who laid eyes on this extraordinary piece. Enthusiastic reviews and orders for her début creation led Elizaveta to persevere in her designing, and to assemble a team to create her own company. So in 2015 the  Liza Borzaya brand emerged, and the unusual palm bracelet became it’s calling card.

Elizaveta Borzunova, founder of Liza Borzaya in her enamel and diamond 'Swallow' palm bracelet

Elizaveta Borzunova, founder of Liza Borzaya in her enamel and diamond 'Swallow' palm bracelet

When I visited Liza’s showroom in the summer of 2017 – looking at the pieces, the sketches, the workshop itself – it became immediately obvious to me that she strives to achieve perfection in everything she does, with the highest possible degree of professionalism. However, she does not always go about it the way you might expect. An example is that Liza first studied drawing under the guidance of a few artists simultaneously, because one fascinated her with their technique of drawing flowers, another, with the way they drew birds, and a third caught her eye with their gemstone renderings. Now, alongside her designers, she creates the most detailed and accurate sketches of her ideas, trusting her inner sense of beauty above all else.

Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel, diamond and ruby earrings

Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel, diamond and ruby earrings

 Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel, diamond and ruby earrings

Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel, diamond and ruby earrings

 Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel, diamond and ruby pendant necklace

Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel, diamond and ruby pendant necklace

 Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel and diamond ring

Liza Borzaya 'Rebel' enamel and diamond ring

Elizaveta has a special ‘relationship’ with gemstones. She did not study gemmology, but instead learned everything through practice, vocationally. This constant ‘communication’ with a variety of gems has allowed her to constantly replenish her knowledge, and her collaboration with proven experts means she is always confident that only quality assured stones fall into her possession. In Liza Borzaya jewellery, one finds colourful diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires alongside opals, coral and amethysts.

Liza Borzaya diamond collar necklace

Liza Borzaya diamond collar necklace

Elizaveta and her team aren’t afraid to work with vivid hues, so many Liza Borzaya pieces are bright and colourful. Not only does she mostly use coloured gems, she also employs various shades of hot enamel to create vibrant earrings, sautoirs and bracelets. Usually, Elizaveta’s pieces are decorated with complex artistic compositions, which she feels are best represented using the enamelling technique. Her favourite thing is to create jewellery which is transformable with multifunctional elements: for example, the ‘Swallows’ and ‘Bullfinches’ bracelets can easily be transformed into a pendant, brooch or hairpin if so desired.

Liza Borzaya diamond and emerald sautoir

Liza Borzaya diamond and emerald sautoir

 Liza Borzaya diamond and emerald sautoir

Liza Borzaya diamond and emerald sautoir

 Liza Borzaya diamond and emerald sautoir

Liza Borzaya diamond and emerald sautoir

Elizaveta Borzunova passionately and enthusiastically talks about how she creates her jewellery, which is invariably inspired by nature, the masterpieces by the enamel genius Lalique, the original methods of jewellery fastening, and the amazing possibilities of new technologies… as well as her own pieces. The creation of a bracelet with a floral theme whose central element is bright scarlet enameled poppy captivated her ideas so much that it influenced the entire ‘Lugovaya’ collection. The collection is set to include earrings, rings, bracelets, miniature necklaces and even flower brooches, but as the extensive work on these pieces is yet to be completed, we shall revisit this Liza Borzaya collection again soon. 

Liza Borzaya diamond earrings

Liza Borzaya diamond earrings

When I met her, Elizaveta admitted that she is already planning something unusual and provocative: “I’ll surprise you!” Announced the designer with pride. Be among the first to see new Liza Borzaya pieces – and how they are created – on the @lizaborzaya Instagram page.

Julien Riad Sahyoun: Jewellery Art Based on Babylonian-Assyrian Cuneiform Script

continue reading

Exceptional Splendour: Jaipur Gems Celebrates 50 Years with Abu Dhabi Opening and New High Jewels 

Let me take you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Abu Dhabi boutique and share some of my sparkling highlights

by Katerina Perez

Radiating Confidence: The Mother-Daughter Energy Behind Growing Brand Aponine

As one of this year’s Couture show debutants, Turkish brand Aponine impressed me with its blend of colourful creativity, timeless elegance, and stylish femininity. Let’s take a closer look…

by Katerina Perez

Sensual Silhouettes: Jewels with Curves in All the Right Places

Is it getting hot in here, or is it just us? As jewellers swap sharp lines for shapely swirls, we look at new collections that are embracing the raw power of sensuality inspired by the female form

by Rachael Taylor

Artistic Realms: The Enchanting Natural World of Histoire D’Elle

I had the pleasure of speaking with Pascale Van Maele, the Brand Manager of Histoire d'Elle, which celebrates the deep-rooted connection between quiet femininity, elegance and natural forms. Let's explore together…

by Sarah Jordan

Spinel Stories: Celebrating the Special Allure of Spinels with the House of Gübelin 

I visited the Geneva boutique of the family-owned business to indulge my passion for this overlooked gemstone and explore some of its beautiful creations…

by Katerina Perez

Golden Hour: Cosmic Creations in the Chanel Reach for the Stars High Jewellery Collection

The Reach for the Stars collection bounces between cosmic constellations of diamonds, elaborate, almost mythological neckwear, and starbursts of coloured stones, all with the Maison’s Parisian flair

by Sarah Jordan

Ultimate Guide to Promise Rings: What They Mean, How to Wear One and Where to Buy

While the promise ring's meaning has evolved, its emotional weight remains, making it especially popular among Gen Z and millennial couples seeking the perfect, personal pre-engagement jewel

by Claire Roberts

Exquisite Escapes: The Idyllic Inspirations Behind the Diorexquis High Jewellery Collection

In early May 2025, Dior Joaillerie's Artistic Director Victoire de Castellane showcased an unprecedented high jewellery collection, Diorexquis, to more than 300 VIPs at the Château de la Colle Noire in the heart of Provence. Let's take a closer look…

by Katerina Perez

Millionaire Products: Celebrating the No-Expense-Spared Bvlgari Polychroma High Jewellery Collection

Bvlgari is opening a magnificent new chapter in the world of high jewellery, and high jewellery watches with the Polychroma collection. Here's what I have discovered so far…

by Katerina Perez

Sea of Wonder: Celebrating the Ocean’s Endless Bounty with the Tiffany & Co. Blue Book 2025

Here are some of the creations that became an integral part of the Tiffany & Co. underwater world, including starfish, crashing waves and sea turtles…

by Katerina Perez

The Psychology of Jewellery: Why We Adorn Ourselves

From the earliest civilisations to contemporary fashion catwalks, humans have consistently sought ways to embellish themselves. Transcending mere decoration, jewellery acts as a powerful expression of identity, status and emotion. Whether it's the intricate beadwork of ancient societies or the minimalist designs of modern artisans, our choices in adornment reveal layers of personal and cultural narratives. 

by Claire Roberts

Gem Renaissance: Insights from GemGenève Talk on Coloured Gemstones

One of the most exciting shifts in the world of fine jewellery today is the growing appreciation for coloured gemstones, especially those beyond the traditional “Big Three” of rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. So, when the organisers of GemGenève invited me to do a talk, I instantly knew what subject I was going to touch upon - the rise of colour.

by Katerina Perez

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Legacy of Love:The Dreamlike Jewels of Emirati Designer Mariyeh Ghelichkhani

During our meeting in Dubai, we spoke about the importance of family, the sweetness of finding joy through creativity, and the ability to translate dreamy visions and deep feelings into wearable pieces…

by Katerina Perez

Jewels Katerina Perez Loves

Continue Reading

Writing Adventures:Co-Authoring the Book

Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.