Cover Jessie Koh founded JK Gems, a brand specialising in silver jewellery with Peranakan motifs
Jessie Koh founded JK Gems, a brand specialising in silver jewellery with Peranakan motifs
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The former corporate executive now thrives on crafting beautiful jewellery with her hands
Eight years ago, Jessie Koh left her full-time corporate job, trading financial certainty for the deeply personal path of a jewellery designer. The founder of JK Gems has never been happier, having finally found her true calling after 20 years in retail, sales and operations. From managing a staff of 150, she now works by herself in a neat, cosy studio. Her calendar, once filled with mind-numbing meetings and report submission deadlines, is now clear to indulge in her passion. Smiling, Koh admits that she finds complete creative fulfilment working with her hands, transforming pieces of silver into pretty jewellery inspired by her Peranakan heritage.
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How did you become interested in making jewellery?
Work was getting a little mundane. I was looking for a creative outlet. I needed to feel alive again. Creating something with my hands has always made me feel that way. Then I found a jewellery-making kit. When I held the pliers, they suddenly became an extension of my hands and I thought, “Oh, this is fun!” I wanted to see what else I could do, so I started experimenting with techniques and materials.
Above Jessie Koh works in a small studio in Kuala Lumpur, where she also teaches jewellery-making
Jessie Koh works in a small studio in Kuala Lumpur, where she also teaches jewellery-making
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Have you always been creative?
My parents were both good with their hands. My dad was in the army but at home, he was our handyman, fixing things and making furniture. My mom was always busy at the sewing machine, making clothes for us. I loved going shopping for fabrics with her.
I’ve always liked the idea of being able to see a design in theory and transform it with my own hands. I enjoy the process, I enjoy solving problems. I’ve always found that fascinating.
You’ve tried different creative endeavours before. Why do you connect with jewellery best?
Jewellery has such an intimate relationship with the wearer. I feel that a piece of jewellery can really transform how you feel, not just how you look. The fact that jewellery can be something “lived in” is comforting and gives you confidence.
I love the challenge of making jewellery. You need to spend a long time honing your skill—there are a lot of repetitions, and you make a lot of mistakes. I’ve been doing this for eight years and I still find that I have a lot more to learn. I love that there’s no end to the journey.
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Above Jessie Koh’s jewellery is inspired by her Peranakan heritage
Jessie Koh’s jewellery is inspired by her Peranakan heritage
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How did you learn about making jewellery?
Through books, as there were hardly any resources online at that time. I spent a lot of time going to bookstores, hunting for any book I could find on jewellery.
What inspires you?
I draw things from my life—unintentionally, I might add. But when you grew up with all these motifs around you, I guess it kind of seeped in and influenced me. I love all kinds of jewellery, but I’m especially drawn to creating Peranakan pieces, because I love igniting the excitement of seeing heritage-inspired designs anew.
Does it make you appreciate your heritage more?
The more I do, the more I want to find out. It opened my eyes, and I started to appreciate even the little things that I took for granted before, like the cups and glasses in my mom’s old cabinet or my grandmother’s long silver belt. I would take a closer look at the craftsmanship and sometimes wonder how long it took to make them.
Above Jessie Koh works mainly with silver
Jessie Koh works mainly with silver
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What makes your jewellery stand out?
Every piece is unique as they are all handcrafted. I welcome customers into the studio, allowing them to see what I do and be part of the process.
What do you hope to say with your jewellery?
That craftsmanship still matters in this fast-paced, disposable fashion era. I run jewellery-making classes in my studio, and my students have found it fascinating that making even a simple band is an intricate process that takes time and effort.
What are the rewards of being an independent jewellery designer?
I have the creative freedom to create pieces that I love. It’s a thrilling feeling when you see a customer connect with one of your pieces.
And the challenges?
I have to wear a lot of hats! I’m my own boss, my own staff—and yes, even the janitor! The challenge is managing all these different roles and finding the time to do each task.
Credits
Photography: Amru Shakir
Topics
Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
