Montserrat Oliver, the Mexican icon who started as an international model, has had a multifaceted career. After becoming a beloved TV personality, she decided to explore her creative side by jumping into the world of jewelry, designing her own pieces.
Born on April 13, 1966, in Monterrey, Mexico, Montserrat Lourdes Socorro Oliver never planned on pursuing fame. In fact, she once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, thanks to her deep love for animals. But fate had other plans for her. When she was 16, she was discovered by a model scout, with her striking beauty and tall frame catapulting her into the world of high fashion.
© Getty ImagesHer first photo shoot was a major success, landing her in Vogue, marking her professional modeling debut. That feature launched her into a top agency and onto runways and commercials, making her one of the most stunning and recognizable faces of her time.
After making waves in the fashion world, Montserrat pivoted to television, joining Televisa, the media giant that helped cement her celebrity status. Thanks to the keen eye of CEA director Eugenio Cobo, she made her acting debut in the telenovela "Ramona", starring alongside Kate del Castillo.
"Yolanda and I just started filming whatever we wanted—interviews, silly stuff with friends. Honestly, we invented YouTube before it was a thing."
© Getty ImagesWhile acting was a new adventure, it was her on-screen chemistry with longtime friend Yolanda Andrade that truly changed everything. TV executive Mariana Azcárraga saw their magic and gave them a shot at creating their show on Telehit.
Their quirky and raw style struck a chord. Their show, "Las Hijas de la Madre Tierra," quickly became one of the most-watched programs on TV. Through it all, Montserrat developed a love for travel and storytelling, taking audiences along on her global adventures.
In 2018, Montserrat and Yolanda launched a new project: "Montse & Joe." The show has continued, even as Yolanda faces health challenges. Montserrat now leads solo, holding the fort with characteristic charm and strength.
"Our love and respect go beyond friendship. We're the only ones who can truly handle each other. We share deep bonds that will always connect us."
© Getty ImagesIn 2023, Montserrat surprised everyone again, this time stepping into the world of luxury jewelry. As the creative director of H. Moissan, she's now championing a sustainable future in fine jewelry. "These aren't blood diamonds. They're lab-created stones, inspired by a French scientist from 1893. A meteorite fell, he studied the particles, and replicated the stone in a lab. These aren't crystals—they're real gems," she said.
With H. Moissan, Montserrat is redefining modern luxury. Her first collection is stylish, ethically made, and accessible, offering high-end and affordable pieces for people who want to sparkle with purpose. "It's for everyone. Some pieces are pricier, sure—but imagine owning a piece that's both beautiful and ethical," she said to The Editorial Mexico.
Montserrat Oliver is the ultimate queen of reinvention. From being discovered on the streets of Monterrey to gracing the pages of Vogue, lighting up TV screens, and now shaping the future of sustainable fashion, there's nothing that holds her back.
