Small Talk KATHERINE KIM

Katkim specialises in modern, understated elegance and fluid forms. Designer Katherine Kim explains how her brand is founded on sustainability What are some words that describe your jewellery? Versatile. Pure. Sustainable. Timeless. Quality.

Why are you interested in sculptural jewellery?

I have a background in graphic design, so I’m most comfortable with drawing simple lines from organic forms. I find beauty in the movement, rhythm, intersection, space, boundaries, scale, symmetry and asymmetry that [arise] when a piece is worn or stands on its own in a sculptural form.

Can jewellery be considered as art and if so, how?

Art comes in myriad forms and jewellery is definitely one of them. Jewellery is created through imagination and connected to emotions, and is a very intimate process. Jewellery can have a close relationship to the individual and has the ability to evoke a strong sense of connection.

Why is it important for the jewellery industry to put an emphasis on sustainability and ethics, and how does Katkim do this?

The jewellery industry has always been negatively associated with transparency, and it’s time to speak up about the issues and educate people for faster change. Although craftsmanship and quality are my priorities, sustainable and ethical practices have always been at the forefront of my business. My team and I strive to have as minimal an impact on the environment and community [as possible], and are mindful of how much waste we produce. We only work with trusted and reputable suppliers who have an ethical supply chain for all our stones and gold, which is also why I keep my production local, so we can oversee the entire process.

Which celebrity were you most thrilled to see wearing your jewellery?

I feel incredibly honoured to have had so many notable women wear my pieces. If I had to choose one, it’d be Charlize Theron, whom we had in our pieces recently. That was very exciting.