In the realm of artisanal craftsmanship, where creativity meets precision, exceptional fine jewelry designers are redefining the landscape of elegance and traditional jewelry
With a harmonious blend of Filipino heritage and contemporary flair, these local artisans have emerged as crowd favorites in the jewelry scene. These local jewelry designers, fueled by creativity and a deep connection to their roots, are crafting pieces that transcend mere accessories, weaving tales of heritage, innovation, and individuality.
From delicate, handcrafted pieces that whisper timeless elegance to bold, avant-garde designs that push the boundaries of conventional adornment, our local jewelry designers bring a diverse tapestry of styles to the forefront.
Here are five Filipino fine jewelry designers who have built a reputation for creating the finest pieces.
Kristine Dee
The fusion of industrial design principles with jewelry-making artistry shines again in Kristine Dee’s newest collection as she gives a twist to everyday objects such as the paper clip. Dee pushes the limits of beauty by crafting distinctive pieces that serve as a testament to the artistic possibilities inherent in everyday objects.
Beauty in Asymmetry—is a 70-piece collection that stands as proof of the undiscovered allure of asymmetry, featuring mini collections like the “Enchanted Book of Zodiacs,” – your personal storybook that can be engraved in the pendant. These book pendants are available in a selection of stones, including pink or black mother of pearl, malachite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise.
Each piece is carefully selected with mesmerizing gemstones to enrich the asymmetrical narrative. Emeralds evoke nature’s tranquility, blue sapphires mirror ocean depths, rubies embody passion, and pearls bring classic elegance. Diamonds, representing sophistication, take center stage, while special-cut peridots and aquamarines are a personal must for Dee, as they are her birthstones and her son’s.
In each piece, asymmetry blends the unconventional with the timeless, inviting wearers to appreciate the beauty of the unexpected and engage with untamed artistic expression.
Instagram: @kristinedeejewellery | One McKinley Place, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
Paul Syjuco
Paul Syjuco is a maestro of precious metals, fusing traditional Filipino design elements with modern sensibilities, and crafts items that are both simple yet meticulously made, sculpted yet gracefully flowing. His works reflect the deep heritage and timeless essence of fine jewelry, intertwined with bold contemporary influences inspired by his ardent passion for music, architecture, and the arts.
In his newest jewelry line for 2023, titled PLAY, he revels in the celebration of color—a kaleidoscope of vibrant and bold to subdued and saturated hues. Each item in this collection serves as a canvas for an explosion of lively tones.
Maximalist forms take center stage in this jewelry line, allowing for an exuberant display of creativity and self-expression. From statement necklaces adorned with an array of gemstones to intricately crafted earrings that play with the interplay of colors, every piece tells a story of joy and vibrancy.
Geometric shapes become the playground for these hues, adding a layer of sophistication to the collection. Whether it’s a pendant with a mosaic of gemstones arranged in a geometric pattern or a pair of earrings that juxtapose different shapes and shades, the interplay of form and color is a testament to the harmonious fusion of artistry and design.
J Makitalo Jewelry
Established in 2008 after securing victory in a national jewelry design competition, J Makitalo has since become a beacon of artful craftsmanship. Collaborating with skilled goldsmiths in Bulacan, Philippines, and local artisan communities, Joyce infuses her creations with a unique blend of ancient-modern allure and a non-traditional approach.
Described as talismanic treasures, J Makitalo’s creations serve as tangible expressions of Joyce’s creative ingenuity. Drawing inspiration from ancient symbolism, she deftly translates these influences into captivating jewelry patterns. At the core of her designs lie stones, chosen for their raw, irregular beauty and hand-cut with precision. These stones become the focal point of each piece, embodying a harmonious blend of timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication.
J Makitalo Jewelry features a symphony of style and substance, where every piece tells a unique story, and jewelry becomes an immersive experience, capturing the spirit of both ancient and modern artistic expression.
Jul B. Dizon
Jul B. Dizon reshaped the landscape of the country’s jewelry industry when she founded a jewelry store bearing her name. Dizon’s pieces, distinguished by their bold designs and vividly colored stones, are easily identifiable from a distance– a dedication to meticulous craftsmanship.
Before her passing, she played a crucial role in imparting knowledge to the next generation involved in running the family business. Today, her daughters continue her legacy.
Whimsical and liberated, Candy draws inspiration from nature, adopting an organic approach for her designs with an array of chunky, colorful gemstones. Inspired by her mother’s free-spirited artistic process, Candy maintains a pure and unrestricted creative ethos, evident in her collection ranging from bold modern pieces to vintage-inspired creations.
Ginny, a designer captivated by the tales within gemstones, enriches her creations with historical backgrounds and mythologies. A winning piece for the Tanzanite Foundation personified the story of tanzanite’s discovery. Inspired by both the past and the future, her designs range from historical narratives to futuristic, sci-fi concepts, including a collection of robot and Millennium Falcon-inspired brooches.
Lucille, inspired by her Chinese lineage, weaves the richness of Asia’s cultural history into her designs. An avid traveler drawing from architecture, art, and fashion, she merges tradition with modernity in her creations, employing brightly colored stones to bring her visions to life.
Whisenhunt Design
As a designer who embraces innovation while paying homage to timeless traditions, Nicole E. Whisenhunt’s creations are celebrated for their versatility. Whether it’s a piece for a glamorous evening affair or an accessory for everyday elegance, Nicole’s designs have a distinctive allure that transcends occasions.
Nicole draws inspiration from a myriad of sources, infusing her designs with elements that resonate with diverse tastes. Her creations often feature a harmonious blend of precious metals and gemstones, showcasing a thoughtful selection that adds a touch of opulence to her work.
Her boutique located at Power Plant Mall showcases not only intricately made designs but also vintage pieces sourced from her travels. Whether it’s the intricate composition of the French era, the bold geometric designs of Art Deco, or the free-spirited expressions of the 1960, every piece reflects the time-tested quality of craftsmanship, meticulously chosen for its durability and timeless appeal.