Maria Tash

Maria Tashjian, known as Maria Tash, is an American designer and retailer of jewelry. She has supplied piercings to several world-class celebrities, and has appeared on television numerous times to discuss jewelry. She is Secretary of the Armenian Jewelers Association.

Her interest began at a young age after attending a jewelry design class with her mother, and she took up studying in London. There she developed an appreciation for Indian and Pakistani designs, most notably nostril and ear jewelry.

Upon returning to the United States, she opened her first piercing and tattoo spa, Venus Modern Body Arts, located in the East Village of New York City. As the industry expanded, the business expanded into Venus By Maria Tash, Inc.. In Spring 2004 Maria opened her second jewelry store, Maria Tash Venus, located in the lower Manhattan Soho area, and broadened her designs. Both locations are in operation in addition to an online website that re-launched in December 2007. Her list of celebrity customers includes Jessica Alba, Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears. 

Education and press
Maria is a graduate of Columbia University and holds a BSc in Astronomy. She also attended New York's Fashion Institute of Technology for jewelry making and design. 

She has discussed the industry in various television and print media outlets including MTV, MSNBC, The Today Show, ABC News, The View, Vogue, The Village Voice and The Daily News. Her jewellery designs have been featured in magazines including InStyle and W Jewelry.