The S.B. Questionnaire: Daniel Gibbings

Exotic and bold are two adjectives that come to mind to describe the distinctive style of Daniel Gibbings’s jewelry, but they can also be used to describe the man. Born in South Africa and educated in Israel and England, Daniel possesses a personality imbued by all of these influences. Over 20 years ago, he decided to open his flagship store in Santa Barbara, from which his designs have garnered international recognition plus the appreciation of a very stylish clientele. He is also the designer of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s many awards, which were inspired by the steeple of the iconic Arlington Theatre.

He took time before packing his bags for a trip to Africa to answer the Proust Questionnaire.

What do you like most about your job?

I love the creative process, start to finish, choosing all the materials, hunting for unique stones all of it. The satisfaction of creating something beautiful that will last a lifetime from just a thought in my mind.

What is your current state of mind?

Anticipation of taking the business to its full potential, seeing where that will lead us.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

No commitments! A free day at the beach free of commitments with smell of good food in the air.

What is your greatest fear?

Heights and my business partner Setenay’s wrath.

Who do you most admire and why?

My mother for putting up with me, for all that I made her go through.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Freedom to travel comfortably as often as I choose.

What is the quality you most like in people?

Intelligence, integrity, and ability to laugh at oneself.

What is the quality you most dislike in people?

Greed.

What do you most value in friends?

Comfort of knowing that they are always there for me in good and bad times.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Stubbornness and determination.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

F*&% this.

Which talent would you most like to have?

The ability to sing.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

To slow down and smell the roses more often.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Having two wonderful, happy kids.

Where would you most like to live?

In the bush in Africa.

What is your most treasured possession?

My bush camp in Africa.

Who makes you laugh the most?

My son Noah, the aspiring actor.

What is your motto?

Live and let live.