Branching out into the international market as a local brand is no easy feat, yet Singapore-based sustainable jewellery brand EDEN + ELIE has gone and done just that.
A partnership between Selling Sunset (Netflix) star Amanza Smith and the socially conscious Singapore jewellery designer was made possible thanks to a chance meeting through a mutual friend at Catch L.A. The two teamed up to create the “Spirit of Place” collection inspired by places that Amanza feels most connected with.
“I love jewellery and it has always been my dream to create a collection inspired by all the places that inspire me; the city for all its energy and vibrancy and the ocean for its calming restorative effect. I have been a fan of this brand for some time and am so proud of the timeless collection we have created together. My hope is that everyone will find a special piece they can treasure for a lifetime,” shared Amanza.
The collection features bangles, bracelets, earrings, necklaces and charms in black, blue, gold, silver, and white.How the jewellery brand started
Founded by designer Stephanie Choo, EDEN + ELIE creates beautiful, intricate handwoven jewellery, made locally in Singapore by their team of neurodiverse artisans, including some who are individuals with autism who are specifically mentored and nurtured for the role.
In a previous life, Stephanie worked as an architect and design professional in the US before establishing her label. It’s funny how life has a way of bringing one full circle!
Since launching the brand in 2015, Stephanie and her partner Leon Toh have sought out fresh, creative approaches to create design-led, high quality jewellery with a positive social impact.
Evoking adventure, escape & glamour
“Spirit of Place is meant to be a jewellery collection that speaks to women all over the world about the special places that we hold dear in our hearts,” shares Stephanie Choo, EDEN + ELIE’s co-founder. “No matter where life has us situated, each of us has a special memory of that favourite place that we go to when we want to draw comfort, strength and joy.”
The influence of the jewellery collection is the two places where Amanza is most connected: the ocean and the city. The pieces in this collection capture the essence of these locations through a meticulous development process.
Featuring a wide range of handcrafted, timeless and exquisite pieces, the collection includes accessories like bangles, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Each piece is handmade with 18k gold and constructed using needle and polymer thread by EDEN + ELIE’s neurodivergent local artisans.
Stephanie mentioned that, as an architect, evoking that connection to place and memory in handwoven jewellery is meaningful to her. “It was also an absolute joy working with Amanza, with her deep appreciation and knowledge of space and design.”
The limited edition Amanza Smith “Spirit of Place” jewellery collection is available to shop at Showfield’s New York City from now until January 22, 2023 and online at EDEN + ELIE.
