Small Talk
Storytelling is an interest that this jeweller effortlessly incorporates into her works. In this short catch up with Tatler, she relates how her bespoke pieces highlight sentimentality
You are known for using precious stones and metals in creating pieces that are both art and accessory. Can you walk us through this process? When making our bespoke or custom-made pieces, our process usually begins with meeting the client, to learn about his or her style and preferences and o know what specific piece he or she is looking for. After this, we begin with sketching the designs which we then present to the clients. Once finalised, this is then brought to production. For collection pieces, I usually begin with a certain theme that I study through research; then I create mood boards and playlists to get the feeling and understand the piece thoroughly.
How are you able to work on your two passions (jewellery designing and culinary) despite the limitations brought by Covid-19?
Having been in the industry for more than a decade now, jewellery designing is now something I consider as part of my everyday life. When the pandemic hit us back in 2020, there were a lot of challenges we had to face but I’m proud that we were able to find ways to adapt with the help of new advancements in technology and the resiliency of our team.
When did your love for jewellery-making begin? Can you please share some of your most favourite works? Growing up, I have always been creative. I love making things and as young as in middle school, I began an appreciation for jewellery. However, it was around college during my early twenties that I began with jewellerymaking. I evolved from simple, handmade, wired jewellery to embroidered jewellery and then to fine jewellery. One of my most favourite works is the embroidered bib necklace that I have displayed and framed in my boutique. In some way, I can say it enlivened that spirit of telling myself that I was going to stay committed to this artistry and I was going to make it work.
How often should people clean their accessories? What specific storage should jewellery enthusiasts consider having to preserve their mostvalued pieces?
For professional cleaning and checking of jewellery, we recommend doing it every six months especially if they are worn frequently. Here we check the prongs holding the stones, the setting itself and clean the piece thoroughly. For storing and keeping jewellery, a lined or padded jewellery box with separate sections or compartments is best.
What tips can you share to budding designers who want to make it big in the jewellerymaking industry someday? Working in the jewellery industry isn’t a glamorous job. Like any career, there are a lot of aspects to consider—finance, marketing, inventory and more. As a designer, you’ll face a lot of different challenges, but the most important thing is to stay committed.