Aloha! My name is Masha Dabro.
I'm the founder, designer and photographer of Istovo jewelry. My mission is to make the world a better place by helping women to fall deeply in love with themselves.
«Istovo» means made with passion & love.
ístovo is an obsolete Russian word meaning something that is made passionately, with great care and love.
The very first time I heard it I fell in love with this beautiful word from my native language. I was born and raised in Moscow, Russia. I first learned it from my then future husband just a few months after we’ve met. We’ve been talking all about our goals and dreams for the future. I shared with him that I always wanted to have my own business. And he said: “hey, I’ve been thinking this would be a great name for a brand”. I never heard this before, and as soon as Istovo came out of his mouth I got this giggly sensation inside my belly. I felt right there and then I was deeply connected with it. Somehow I always knew it would be what I’ve connected my whole life with.
How it all began
Right around this time I dropped out of college where I was studying journalism, and just got into the Design school where I started studying graphic design. Back then I had no idea I would ever get into jewelry making.
I couldn’t ever have imagined starting my own jewelry brand. Creating a collection of more than 150 different designs, and selling my jewelry to thousands of people around the world. I’m sure the 21-year old me would be stunned if I told her, but she wouldn’t be too surprised. I always believed in myself and knew I was meant to do amazing things with my life.
My mission
My mission is to bring even more beauty into our gorgeous world. I create my jewelry for those who appreciate the pure beauty of simple things, unique designs, and exquisite product quality. Who seek a deeper meaning in things they surround themselves with. I hope for women wearing Istovo jewelry to feel unique, beautiful, appreciated, loved and heard. I hope through my designs they can feel a deeper connection to something much bigger than any one of us. The love we pour into ourselves is like water we pour onto the seeds - it grows much deeper and wider beyond ourselves. I’m a big believer is self care, and I think we underestimate the power we gain when we give ourselves what we truly need. Those of us who learn this intricate art of self love bloom so beautifully they attract and warm others with their inner light.
Inspiration
I seek inspiration all around me, most of all in Nature. In sparks of the sun, ripples of tides, patterns in the sand, surface of the water, wind in my hair, and the rain on my skin. In the grace and infinite power of women. Each and every one of my pieces is born to bring more love and beauty into the world around it. I’m so grateful for the ability to inspire others, and help them see their value, and for a chance to change the world for the better with my craft.