Interviews med Teong Yan Ni

I graduated in Pearls and Jewelry Design in 2015 from Gemological Institute of America and Jewelry Manufacturing Art in 2016 locally. It is already been 3 years now and I do have some great clients that I worked with. She gave me full of trust of my professionalism, and to me that was the biggest support. True enough, when I delivered to her, I didn’t disappoint her. And the highest satisfaction is to see her left with happy smile and she then again referred her friend to me.

Since young I love art and craft and I was rather good at it. At high school I have taken Art stream but when I entered into university I took up Marketing as my major having the thought of it will be more practical to get a stable salary upon graduated. After more than 10 years of working and earned salaried income, my life became more comfortable with stable job at the bank which was my last employer. However, I felt still something missing. I couldn’t hide my character in doing things with my best and love achieving true satisfaction and recognition of your work produced. During my spare time, I took up pearl beading class from a teacher whom never had the intention to receive me. She was one of the exhibitor in an exhibition promoting her pearls product. I eventually felt in love in pearl at first and I have this dream to become a jewelry designer. I always see myself can be more fulfilled other than working in a corporate world. So, I left my job and pursued further studies in this field. I am thankful to my initial teacher whom taught me pearl beading because she was the first whom leaded me to basic understanding of pearls and which also, she shown constant support.

When I worked on new project or new design. I always started with inspiration it could be gotten some where any time and mostly on things I observed surroundings. I explored the inspiration by my imaginary and making multiple sketches on my sketch book or my mobile phone which with drawing function. I must first record it down below the idea blow away. I like to work with irregular system, or you may say irregular shapes. I also will like to try new idea by further my sketches to do even more creative way. I will put in technical aspect when designing the piece with my jewelry manufacturing background it supported my work heavily. I rely heavily on my hand drawing for initial part until multiple modification drawn. I again translate it into technical drawing and rendering. During the process, numerous research and consideration as in research the nature of the object I inspired from, color tones representation, meaning of the design, shall I include gemstone or not, practicality, material use and so forth. Most of the time as I personally love gemstone, I will try to incorporate in. Before I finalize on technical drawing, I will try to understand the perspective by using measurement tool, clay, paper to guide me further understanding the creation. Depending on the design, mock-up is necessary by putting the drawing into computer aided design and from there wax model is produced. Sometimes, even the model is produced, it doesn’t necessary mean finalized and may need some changes and the process repeat.

When designing at initial stage, I normally feel highly curious and always eager to complete the project. The journey normally is the most challenging part as you need to put all the possible aspects in your creation to make it real. At times, I will be stuck in the middle of process, and I will take a pause by taking a good shower, doing some gardening, meeting friends or just simply go to bed early. Things strike and I may get some other idea upon doing these relaxing activities. The most exciting part is product final realization. After dealing with expert team numerous rounds of discussion, I must patiently wait for the final. Once the design turned up to real, that is the most pleasure moment and I immediately feel like to I wanted to tell the whole world.

There are other non-design skills shaped me as a designer. I would say mainly soft skills like character building and mental strengthening. I started to live separated from my parents since a child and pursued an independent living deciding path, I wanted to go on by myself. I learnt how to make decision and not all decision were right as along the path I made many mistakes. I strongly believed, that shaped my determination on the thing I wanted to do. Being a result driven person, I can be a little emotional sometimes and controlling emotion is also a skill thing and I lose patient when result is not met. During my employment journey, I picked up a lot of multi-tasking managing skills, prioritization and planning. And when pursued to entrepreneur role, that was a big leap of growth and skill such as relationship building, problem solving, decision making and so forth. Also, being an independent designer can be lonely therefore, self-motivation is also important. These are some of the contributor factors as part of this journey and eventually will lead to success.

At my level of designing business currently, I wish I can get contract in designing for companies and continue to produce great design, setting trend and get appreciated. For a bigger plan, I would love to serve more people, incorporated my design more on people’s daily lives. I want to be Cally Kwong, a strong and daring person, a person with great interpersonal, full of inspiration, desire and achievements. I want to be remembered as that and my product is a tool to bring me there. I am currently working on a collection with Amethyst and Pearl. At the same time, I will also try to take up some time to continuously upgrade myself by taking some education and competing in a competition. There is also a project, a big necklace, deal with rubies and pearl have yet to realized. But my biggest dream project will be to design a cuff bracelet for Oprah Winfrey because she inspired me a lot. She is such a wonderful woman and the reason I chose cuff bracelet is representing her as a Wonder Woman.

As a beginner in designing career, you will face lack of confident and always think your work not good enough. We must believe in ourselves, meanwhile fine tuning on your skills. Ask yourself repeatedly, why you choose this career, why you wanted to do this. So that when you were lost somewhere in future or when you about to give up, you go back and ask yourself why you started from the first place. When, I just started my journey, I never thought of the ugly side of it such as society culture, competition, perception and dealing with people. You face problems all alone an when too many of it, you may break down. Basically, if you start from ground zero, you have nothing to trade other than your young knowledge and skills. I have no connection, no experience, and my mind was filled with “do not know how”, how to start, where to start, whom to find and hundreds of questions you had until you can’t sleep at night. Over time, I learnt to resolve problems and figure out the way I wanted to pave. Best advice I received was to participate in competition and expand your horizon for example go for workshop, conference, exhibition, show and trips that beneficial your field. I strongly believed networking can helps you along the way especially entering entrepreneur journey.

Some tips we could take home are do not assume everything can be done yourself. Eventhough, you may not have your own team, talk to people. Be open. Because being a designer, sometimes we have this attitude is to confine yourself until you figure out a way. Is not always work, if it doesn’t work you have to open up.

When it comes to designing skills, dare to try new ideas. Instil in your mind that anything is possible. You may start with a simple project to get confidence, once you kick started it is easier to move forward.

Do not give in too much to limitation, instead think of the possibility rather than taking short cut to just simply give in. Always rationalize yourself on the decision. Because working as a designer, sky is the limit, imagination is unlimited, if we simply give in to limitation that can make a great design, that is rather a pity, you will lose out your own design principle and at the end of the day you may not get the happiness you desire. You may think, this field not suits you and you may consider venture into new thing.

After breakfast, 10am go to studio, check emails and news, start sketching or continue previous drawing until end of the day if no appointment. Home at 7pm dinner and rest. However, at peak time, home at 10pm or 12am. It will be subjective if I have appointment and it is much more exciting to meet people rather than staying indoor all the time. At times, day can be boring, not much progress or so, best I like to do is gardening or have a nice cup of tea which browsing media.

I am more likely stick to own personal style, nature inspired oriented. I do not always make product hip on the season, but I like it to be more creative and versatile. I love creating a collection series because beneath is has a story and the extension of it. Sometimes I design something more elaborate but also have a series with the same inspiration but a simpler piece.

The way I evaluate good design is there is no right or wrong in design. Is all about design elements. Whether the elements you incorporate create a pleasant and harmonious feeling. That will be the very first criteria. Secondly, the practicality. Sometimes, design may be good at paper and we must always ensure the final product is good to use or wear. A lot of the time, we have to test it out and improve from there. Investing in the improvise version is unavoidable.

Normally, I will compare with my drawing if 95% met I will go ahead. Slight variation happens and depends on which part. As mostly my pieces are hand fabricated, we have to give in to workmanship as long as it doesn’t alter my design drawing or concept. However, I always bear in mind, I can do better next time. I will know it becomes success when it met my expectation and follow by feedback from people. The best way is, if you are so proud of your work, send for 3rd party evaluation such as competition, with this you can gauge where you are or how far you can be.

My greatest design will be Blue Daisy so far. The concept, flexibility, interchangeable and femininity are the things I am proud of. I have spent significant time about 6 – 9 months from very initial idea. It was all started to design just the ring. I thought that will be my stretch. But after I realized the ring piece, I had another idea, I have more confident to design the whole collection. Because the outcome was over delighted, I want it to be in several pieces. I designed this work because I found blue daisy at florist shop very attractive and unusual. The most challenging was the technical part of the connector and hook whereby it has to be practical, and the unnoticeable. Couple of trial and errors made and communication to manufacturer also has taken up some time. I paid a lot of attention on every details to ensure it looks as perfect as possible.

I admires Wallace Chan for his intricate, delicate and precision of jewelry pieces. He doesn’t count quantity that he produces but quality. And his work is making significance to the industry. If I were given a chance to talk to a designer that not alive anymore, I shall choose Salvatore Ferragamo. He created legend from his own bare hand looking at he came from poor family. And back then during his era, he faced big challenges on war and politics too. Although he faced bankruptcy at one point of time, but he revived and grew bigger and more popular. His name still leaves and it is so inspiring to hear his success stories one day.

My inspiring city will be my hometown Ipoh. The place I hold a lot of sentimental values started with some unhappy memories then turned it into motivation. Because I love nature, my hometown has clean spring water, caves, limestone, cleaner air and other heritage. Culture affect my design if I plan to sell the design. However, as I design base on more of our personal style, I do not include much of culture factor. Good design is necessary for advancement of society, it creates beautiful life, cultures like things to talk about, admiration and motivation. Small positive incremental value that I earned will be when I wear my own design. People notices and talk about it. And from there, they kind of gauge I am someone with unique taste and curious in confirming by asking my profession.

If I were to find someone to work with me, I prefer someone sincere and share the same mission. I think it is not easy to work with individual unique people, but if we have the same belief and understanding, it clicks well. A 3D computer designer will be my ideal partner. To me a good designer is someone not easily give up, constant challenge yourself, try new things and learn from mistakes. Being in my profession as a jewelry designer, you can get high satisfaction and fulfilment, but it might take a long time to get there. Therefore, need a lot of patient and perseverance. Also, if you are looking at short term monetary reward, it may not turn up the way you expected. In this journey to get there, I believed numerous challenge we have to encounter but always remind yourself we have to be ready. When opportunity comes, we can embark to next bigger milestone.

I am volunteering in my alumni activities for 3 years now, yearly I participate and involve in workshop, conference which we think it is contributing to the society. I will also consider pro bono work depends on the collaboration. I would say involving in humanitarian project will expand our scope, gain experience, help our profile and gain good publicity. It will be my pleasure to provide opportunities to young designers. By doing so, I create a trusted designer community and bonds better.

By participating in A’ Design Award and Competition, it has expanded my scope, challenging myself to be more outreach. It is beneficial, because during this process you practice a lot of thinking process and in my opinion is it growing process. It also makes you take another step further to improve yourself further, to upkeep your skill to be competitive advantage and motivate you to be out of your own confined zone. Further to that, A’ Design Award and Competition has created an extension platform to reach the media internationally, it will bring your current state to another level. Being the Designer of the Day, makes me feel proud that I further make known to the people of my work. And that motivates me to do better in coming future.

It was inspired by purple orchid flower that bloomed beautifully at my balcony. I enjoyed little beautiful things and I studied the details of the flower. I like purple flower myself and orchid represent our tropical country in Malaysia.

I want this design to have natural feeling, lively and vibrant. I want to achieve appreciation of my work.

I will continue to design to make this world more beautiful and I wish to design more sellable design as well.

For the whole collection it takes about 3 months.

I design based on my design inspiration totally created originally.

No. My design is not sold yet. I have produced 1 set on my own for sampling and display purposes. Yes I planned to sell or lease my rights.

I like and enjoy nature myself and I always admire things around me.

I always pay attention to Christie's auction and jewellery exhibition for the reference of my design

Young, vibrant and confident lady

It is the new way of wearing ring and the unconventional way of self-expression

Purple Orchid is named over the original name of the flower I inspired

Sketching, drawing tools and 3D CAD

The color and usage of off-white pearl combined with purple stone make it unique

I worked with our technical team and craftsmen for this design

The stone sorting and the sizes of the stone to represent the petal flowers

It is always in my mind and I want to showcase to the world of my new creation

I learnt that there are many factors to consider when designing and materializing the work

Please support my work at https://www.facebook.com/juwelendesignmalaysia or https://www.instagram.com/juwelen_design/

The main principle, idea and inspiration behind my design was from the flower daisy. The reason I chose blue is blue is more rare than pink and peach daisies.

Femininity and versatility. I want this piece to be appear feminine and flexible as to be able to wear differently at different occasions. Also shapes of the petals.

My future plan is to publicize my design and to pitch company whom needed my services.

If we talk about just the concept part, it takes about 1-2 months.

I decided on this concept base on my own accord. The inspiration was kicked in when I first saw the blue daisies in the florist shop that attracted me.

I don’t think my design currently is being used by another company. I also have copyrighted it. I have produced a piece for my own collection purpose but if any party interested to buy or lease the production right, I am alright with it.

I like to produce this particular work because it is unusual in the market and less seen in the market.

My friends have given me some honest feedback and the rest by my own.

My target customer is female, age 30 and above.

The interchangeable part set this design apart from other similar resembling concept

I named after the type and color of the flower

When I were working on this project, I used drawing and coloring tools, sketch book, clay and paper.

The most unique part is versatility.

Yes, I work with manufacturing expert team to produce this design.

The role of technology is the interchangeable part.

Research of blue daisy flowers was done. The objective was to check the characteristic of the flower such as the petals, colors and other nature. Actual flowers and online pictures were gathered. From there, ratio and size of the flower was taken. Multiple sketches was made in order to translate it into jewelry. Drawing tools such as ruler, measurement tools such as geometrical set were used. Clay was used for initial concept and changes. It then translated into wax carving as a model before fabricated it to the shapes and form. From there, technical part such as size, weight, hook, tail and flexibility was tested. The research part was very important to ensure the design is meeting the versatility yet modelling blue daisy without compromising the practicality.

The most challenging was the technical part of the connector and hook whereby it has to be practical, and the unnoticeable. Couple of trial and errors made and communication to manufacturer also has taken up some time.

Actually, it was from Mr Toi, whom saw his brother Zang Toi as a fashion designer on how he made his brand successful and advised me that I should participate in a competition and visit New York fashion show. So, I began registered an account in A' Design Award & Competition in 2016, but I wasn’t ready back then when I was at beginning in this field. In 2018, when I designed Blue Daisy, I received numerous positive feedback from friends. And thought it will be great and good time to present my design to a prestige international design competition. Honestly, I consume a lot of time in running my daily working tasks, this was really a push for me with also other limited resources I have, and I am glad I can make it happened and won an award. I felt thankful to Mr Toi and those whom had given me advice and support.

If I can improve this design, I would love to make this design in larger size.

Stay tune for my upcoming projects.

The main principle, idea and inspiration behind my design was from the flower daisy. The reason I chose blue is blue is more rare than pink and peach daisies.

My main focus in designing my work are femininity and versatility. I want this piece to be appear feminine and flexible as to be able to wear differently at different occasions. Also, uneven shapes of the petals.

My future plan is to publicize my design and to pitch company whom needed my services.

If we talk about just the concept part, it takes about 1-2 months.

I decided on this concept base on my own accord. The inspiration was kicked in when I first saw the blue daisies in the florist shop that attracted me.

I don’t think my design currently is being used by another company. I also have copyrighted it. I have produced a piece for my own collection purpose but if any party interested to buy or lease the production right, I am alright with it.

I like to produce this particular work because it is unusual in the market and less seen in the market.

My friends have given me some honest feedback and the rest by my own.

My target customer is female, age 30 and above.

The interchangeable part set this design apart from other similar resembling concept.

I named after the type and color of the flower.

When I were working on this project, I used drawing and coloring tools, sketch book, clay and paper.

The most unique part is versatility.

Yes, I work with manufacturing expert team to produce this design.

The role of technology is the interchangeable part.

Research of blue daisy flowers was done. The objective was to check the characteristic of the flower such as the petals, colors and other nature. Actual flowers and online pictures were gathered. From there, ratio and size of the flower was taken. Multiple sketches was made in order to translate it into jewelry. Drawing tools such as ruler, measurement tools such as geometrical set were used. Clay was used for initial concept and changes. It then translated into wax carving as a model before fabricated it to the shapes and form. From there, technical part such as size, weight, lock, hinges and bail was tested. The research part was very important to ensure the design is meeting the versatility yet modelling blue daisy without compromising the practicality.

The most challenging was the technical part of the hinges and lock whereby it has to be practical, and the unnoticeable. Couple of trial and errors made and communication to manufacturer also has taken up some time.

Actually, it was from Mr Toi, whom saw his brother Zang Toi as a fashion designer on how he made his brand successful and advised me that I should participate in a competition and visit New York fashion show. So, I began registered an account in A' Design Award & Competition in 2016, but I wasn’t ready back then when I was at beginning in this field. In 2018, when I designed Blue Daisy, I received numerous positive feedback from friends. And thought it will be great and good time to present my design to a prestige international design competition. Honestly, I consume a lot of time in running my daily working tasks, this was really a push for me with also other limited resources I have, and I am glad I can make it happened and won an award. I felt thankful to Mr Toi and those whom had given me advice and support.

If I can improve this design, I would love to make this design in larger size.

Stay tune for my upcoming projects.

The main principle, idea and inspiration behind my design was from the flower daisy. The reason I chose blue is blue is more rare than pink and peach daisies.

My main focus in designing my work are femininity and versatility. I want this piece to be appear feminine and flexible as to be able to wear differently at different occasions. Also, uneven shapes of the petals.

My future plan is to publicize my design and to pitch company whom needed my services.

If we talk about just the concept part, it takes about 1-2 months.

I decided on this concept base on my own accord. The inspiration was kicked in when I first saw the blue daisies in the florist shop that attracted me.

I don’t think my design currently is being used by another company. I also have copyrighted it. I have produced a piece for my own collection purpose but if any party interested to buy or lease the production right, I am alright with it.

I like to produce this work because it is unusual in the market and less seen in the market.

My friends have given me some honest feedback and the rest by my own.

My target customer is female, age 30 and above.

The interchangeable part set this design apart from other similar resembling concept

I named after the type and color of the flower.

When I were working on this project, I used drawing and coloring tools, sketch book, clay and paper.

The most unique part is versatility.

Yes, I work with manufacturing expert team to produce this design.

The role of technology is the interchangeable part.

Research of blue daisy flowers was done. The objective was to check the characteristic of the flower such as the petals, colors and other nature. Actual flowers and online pictures were gathered. From there, ratio and size of the flower was taken. Multiple sketches was made in order to translate it into jewelry. Drawing tools such as ruler, measurement tools such as geometrical set were used. Clay was used for initial concept and changes. It then translated into wax carving as a model before fabricated it to the shapes and form. From there, technical part such as size, weight, hook, tail and flexibility was tested. The research part was very important to ensure the design is meeting the versatility yet modelling blue daisy without compromising the practicality.

The most challenging was the technical part of the connector and hook whereby it has to be practical, and the unnoticeable. Couple of trial and errors made and communication to manufacturer also has taken up some time.

Actually, it was from Mr Toi, whom saw his brother Zang Toi as a fashion designer on how he made his brand successful and advised me that I should participate in a competition and visit New York fashion show. So, I began registered an account in A' Design Award & Competition in 2016, but I wasn’t ready back then when I was at beginning in this field. In 2018, when I designed Blue Daisy, I received numerous positive feedback from friends. And thought it will be great and good time to present my design to a prestige international design competition. Honestly, I consume a lot of time in running my daily working tasks, this was really a push for me with also other limited resources I have, and I am glad I can make it happened and won an award. I felt thankful to Mr Toi and those whom had given me advice and support.

If I can improve this design, I would love to make this design in larger size.

Stay tune for my upcoming projects.

I graduated in Pearls and Jewelry Design in 2015 from Gemological Institute of America and Jewelry Manufacturing Art in 2016 locally.

I started with hobby taking up pearl beading class 7 years ago. I eventually felt in love in pearl at first and I have this dream to become a designer. I always see myself can be more fulfilled other than working in a corporate world. So I left my job.

I chose to become a designer.

I mainly inspired by nature, phenomenon and their surroundings. I wish to design more big and versatile pieces with color-stones in relate to nature.

For young designers, remember your dream, work hard with your whole heart on it and never give up.

Good designer is doing what a designer should do, great designer performs extra-ordinary design, design that touches people, dare to take the challenge and try new things.

The way I evaluate good design is there is no right or wrong in design. Is all about design elements.

Good design creates emotions and has its story behind every creation that worth investing.

I would love to create bracelet cuff for Oprah Winfrey if I had the time. Because she is such a wonderful, generous and big heart woman. I shall design an incredible bracelet cuff for her just like Wonder Woman.

I have couple of drawings but one very prominent would be a necklace full of rubies and pearls that I would like to realize. That drawing originally not that elaborate, because that night I can't sleep, so I drew, when I started I can't stop. I was still at school back then, I played with geometrical shapes and visualizing butterflies wing shapes and many more butterflies came together.

The secret ingredient for success in design is have your own space and time. Explore your imaginary and take a moment to breath.

I inspired by Wallace Chan, Jimmy Choo and Zang Toi as my design masters and legends.

I amazed by Wallace Chan, intricate, delicate and precision of designing. His collection make me feel so livelier and beautiful at all angles.

My greatest design will be Blue Daisy. The concept, flexibility, interchangeable and femininity. It has 8 different ways of wearing and I make wearer feel fresh and new whenever they interchange the parts.

To be a better designer, keep exploring, drawing, sketching and modifying. Also, practice mental strength, an area that we could not neglect. Because we need to deal with many things and sometimes things do not happen the way we wanted. Therefore, hang on there and stay positive.

If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done? This question is something I never think before because ever since I ventured in this field. I never look back.

Design is about emotional art of expression. It is so unique, unable to duplicate the moments, thus idea is very natural and origin, no right or wrong in designing, is all about design elements.

My greatest supported is my spouse, he supports me unconditionally.

To be a great designer, dare to dream, never stop being curious, keep practicing and believing in yourself.

Before becoming design master, I always face self-doubt, lack of confidence, lack of knowledge of jewelry manufacturing, juggle between doing business and designing, dealing with expectation but over time if you never give up, you will sort these out.

One of the challenges for designer is how to present their work? I would say we need a lot of communication, at this digital age, social media is fine but also to participate in competition. Make use of the platform provided and pay attention on details.

My next project will be a collection with Amethyst and Pearls.

My ultimate goal is to become internationally recognize designer and let people have my design as part of their lives.

People expect esteemed designer to produce new design every now and then. Update and communicate regularly. And I think the market would love something more personalize and affordable.

Design creates better society by creating more stylish way of living be in work or personal. Expressing yourself through jewelry make you feels good.

My next project will be a collection with Amethyst and Pearls.

Other than Blue Daisy, I have another collection called Hot Spring. Because that piece is very much emotional attached. As I like to go hotspring, one day, wind was strong, small yellow flowers dropped from trees on the hotspring water. That moment my idea was triggered.

In coming years, I would love to see more people recognize and value the work of designer.

Design field is evolving to computer aided and Virtual Reality, however, I still think original design is the best, from your own idea and traditional way creates more emotion and personal touch. It will be heading towards statement designs, like personalize jewelries or something.

Normally it takes 1 - 3 months to finalize a design project.

When I start a new design project, I normally start from inspiration, idea, research to sketches to mood board.

As a designer my motto is "Jewelry is an expression of art"

Design can set trends depends on the designer and their PR or Marketing campaign. And Trends can set design too because marketer also need to depend on the market needs. Can be happened both.

The role of technology plays importantly just like 3D computer design will help your visualization and realization especially for printing and casting certain precision design, also improve speed and reduce human error.

In my design work, I am using number of drawing and coloring tools, sketch book, clay and paper.

Color, materials and ambient of designs are inter-related and play an important role to each other. For example, what type of combination of colors create more harmonious ambient? When sort of material will be practical and able to support the design?

I wish people like to ask more about my design inspiration, how do you come out with that design idea?

When I see new great design, it inspires me and to figure out their details of their design. Sometimes, I even feel like wanting to meet the designer.

Yes, 3D computer designer will be my ideal partner.

I do interact with people and most influence my design will be my circle of friends, as they give honest feedback.

I like mostly visual like coloring book, ancient jewelry book and history book.

To develop further skill, we need to keep practicing and do some trial and error. Never be afraid to try, and face failure if it didn't turn out as good as you expected.

If I have the opportunity irrelative of time and space I would like to meet and talk to Oprah Winfrey, Ferruccio Ferragamo, Wallace Chan, Jimmy Choo, Cally Kwong and Zang Toi.

This is my first time of getting an award, I think we have to keep participating because this is how you push yourself to do better. Hopefully with better platform designer can contribute more to the industry. It is hard to be famous because designer need to find a right platform to ride on. But I think it is even harder to be famous if you sit at your comfort zone.

I like places such as Swiss Alps, Salzburg North Terrace (Sound of Music), Loch Ness Lake, Waitomo Glowworm Caves. For food I love my traditional food, Chinese food from my home town Ipoh.

When I was explaining my design, I paused and brought my clay out. I started rolling the clay to make tube at first and my client look at me weirdly.

It makes my day when some one really appreciate and value my effort and my design. I motivate myself by reminding myself of my dream. And the journey is long, it takes one step at a time.

When I was a child I never thought I would become jewelry designer, but I love craft works for example collecting sea shells and made into some forms, sewing and stitching, coloring and drawing. And art was my favorite because to me without me realizing that was the easiest subject to score high.

In thousand years from now, we probably will be the next living thing in Mars with non-polluted and non-diseased environment. Living together with non-human cultures. Travel around the universe and visiting planets by space ships.

I will work harder and wish to contribute more to the industry. Please like my social media page if you wish to follow me for future exciting updates.

At high school I have taken Art stream. But in university my major was in Marketing. After some years of working in pursued Pearls and Jewelry Design in 2015 from Gemological Institute of America and Jewelry Manufacturing Art in 2016 locally. Becoming jewelry designer wasn’t in my mind until I started with hobby taking up pearl beading class 7 years ago. I eventually felt in love in pearl at first and I have this dream to become a designer. I always see myself can be more fulfilled other than working in a corporate world. So, I left my job and pursued further study in this field.

My design studio is like a lifestyle gallery. It consists of ground section whereby my gallery and pantry. And upper Mezzanine floor is my working and personal/think-tank room. I have taken sky blue as my feature color because blue create peaceful mood.

Design is about emotional art of expression. It is so unique, unable to duplicate the moments, thus idea is very natural and origin, no right or wrong in designing, is all about design elements.

I like to design necklace, pendant and earrings

Other than Blue Daisy, I have another collection called Hot Spring. Because that piece is very much emotional attached. As I like to go hotspring, one day, wind was strong, small flowers dropped from trees on the hotspring water. That moment my idea was triggered.

I designed Chinese Constellation (Horoscope) which consisted 9 types of different pendants as first thing I designed for company.

I like to work with silver, pearls and color-stones

When I am at outdoor or visiting nature places

I focus on main concept first, combination of stones, color, shapes and practicality

Mixture, normally start with a lot of imagination, curious and anticipating the results

Very excited and at the same time quickly apply quality control

Design is rather subjective some people like, some people may not. But overall design looks harmonious and stand out of what it represents.

The way I evaluate good design is there is no right or wrong in design. Is all about design elements.

Responsibilities of designers are ability to express or present their design and respect another designer’s work.

Design field is evolving to computer aided and Virtual Reality, however, I still think original design is the best, from your own idea and traditional way creates more emotion and personal touch. It will be heading towards statement designs, like personalize jewelries or something.

I would like to exhibit it in Asia, like Hong Kong, US like New York, Europe like London.

I mainly inspired by nature, phenomenon and their surroundings. Such as flora, garden, natural phenomena. I like to go to art gallery or simple outdoor activity like water fall, hot spring to feed my creativity.

My designs style is feminine, prefer combinations of stones opaque and faceted stones. I like to explore this style because opaque stones have its charm but because opaque stone doesn’t produce the reflection of like that much, I complement it with faceted stones. I like opaque stone because of its matte feel and natural surface.

I live in Malaysia, a multi-cultural country. It does affect a little if you plan to sell your design. As whom do you target, what do they like. But if you are designing for your own showcase or accordance to your personal style, no, it is not affecting.

I work with companies by presenting my profile, discussion on the terms or contract. Further discussion and sketches will be performed. Modification apply and final for confirmation.

My suggestion for companies to work with designers are trust, understanding designer’s style, and giving ample of time because good thing needs time.

My design process starts with inspiration, idea, research, sketches, modification, mood board, prototype if necessary and repeat.

Blue Daisy ring, Hot Spring pendant, Cherry Blossom earrings, Warna Gemilang of Malaysia pendant and Frozen Rose Droplet earrings.

After breakfast, 10am go to studio, check emails, start sketching or continue previous drawing until end of the day if not appointment. Home at 7pm dinner and rest. However, at peak time, home at 10pm or 12am.

My pearls of wisdom to young designers are remember your dream, work hard with your heart on it and never give up.

The positive part being a designer is you will achieve high satisfaction and fulfillment, but it takes a long time to get there. Need a lot of patient and perseverance.

Golden rule of design is “Be Yourself”.

Communication skill is very important because we carry ourself and deal with people every day. Technical knowledge is part of the important skills to designer other than creativity skills. It complements highly what you design can be practically realize.

Some tools that I am using during design are sketch book, drawing tools, coloring tools, coloring therapy books, ancient jewelry books, design skill help book and more.

Managing time is the most challenging for me. I will apply prioritization and planning. Prioritize your task, work on what you have planned and be discipline.

1 – 3 months

Most frequent question people asked, “How did you come out with this design?”

My most important job experience will be when dealing with manufacturing team, effective communication is highly important.

Few business to business clients and few business to consumer clients

In the process of designing, I enjoyed most if I have the stones with me, I can work around, helps a lot my imagination. Because it expands my normal routine and is much more exciting than staying indoor.

My future is to continue to develop more new designs in time to come and continue to participate in competition.

I develop the design myself but for manufacturing I work with expert team

My next project will be a collection with Amethyst and Pearls.

Website: www.juwelendesign.com,

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ivyteong123

www.instagram.com/juwelen_design/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ivy.teong.31 www.facebook.com/juwelendesignmalaysia/

I always like to challenge irregularity, and by combining different shapes of Amethyst into flower petals make each of the petal has its own unique characters. I relate to every living has its unique path however we all co-exist in this world and by staying united it reflects harmonism. It’s also represented the beauty of nature where things aren’t perfect and to admire the law of nature. I want my design to look as natural as possible.

I like my design to be versatile, to wear on different fingers. Due to this it is made to be adjustable. At the same time making it flexible, I can make the other part another unique design too which a pearl and a butterfly on top. This goes well with the concept that I am having in which all living unites harmoniously. We have flower, insect and human whom will be the wearer. When this being wear in between fingers, it looks floating especially when wearer moving the hands. For the bud concept, it is because not all flowers bloom, some are bud, again I want to make it natural and adopting the nature.

In our country of Malaysia, the climate is humid with rain or sun all year around and Orchid is the lasting flower here. For the choice of Amethyst and Pearl, I like contrast from the real Orchid whereby the petals are usually purple and the inner part of the flower is white. In real Orchid the purple petal is very attractive. Therefore, Amethyst as faceted gem is being chosen. As for the white, white is an understatement color just like pearl it is humble but elegant thus the white opaque stone such as pearl is chosen. The combination is to embrace differences.

In terms of the floating effect and comfort, there is a bit of technical aspect here. The entire ring needs to be design high and stone need to set above. This way the view is raise on the top of the fingers and give more 3D effect. It can me admire with different angles as to embrace differentiation. For the stability, the width needs to be reasonably spread out so that it touches the next finger and the weight need to be reasonably spread out too.

As I move along my career as jewellery designer, I came to realized that marketing is part of design. Design is the first impression people look at it just like marketing when you do advertisement this is what people first has impression about it. However, how we market is another aspect. The way I market it is to carry unique features while maintain its affordability and marketability. In compare to commercial design in the industry it is more to universal product, maintain trend rather than set trend and challenge the norm. I want my design to be the statement of my style, an individual designer style.

My initial inspiration for my Purple Orchid Ring was from my garden and there are always beautiful butterflies visiting my pots and flowers and Orchid is one of it. The moment is very magical and I came to understand how we live together harmonious with each living has its own nature and eco system. My garden once was a place to give birth to butterflies, there were times, many butterflies nested under some leaves and they lay eggs underneath. I even able to watch their development and their transforming stage until they first to fly for freedom. How amazing and wonderful of this feeling which it has embedded in me and I want to express it in my design.

First and foremost, choosing the shapes and combining it, takes some moment to work around. I shall say just keep working on the shapes and try with numerous sketches until you feel pleasant with it. Also to take note of the sizes and each shapes carry differences. Having the real Orchid on hand as references helps a lot too. Luckily, my garden provides me wonderful choices of orchid flower to look at.

As mentioned, I work with contrast and by nature of the Orchid is, purple is the petal and the center base is white in color. When it comes to proportions, it was greatly inspired by the actual flower. The purple petals parts taken the large proportions where else the white part is rather understatement. However when combined, it definitely carry a huge impact of eye captivation.

I studied not only the flower but my garden too. To incorporate the nature elements from a typical garden included the small details of it. I wanted the structural to represent both living and nature. To ensure the floating elements, the structure needs to be high and low, big and small. Due to these irregularities, it beautiful expressed its elements and structure.

Purple Orchid Ring will challenge the conventional flower design. Not only the aesthetic but also the way of wearing and the choices of gems. The entire ring is thoughtful enough to carry few interesting features which is unusual in the market. I envision every designer to put more creative and innovative thoughts into future work.

Some people may think flower design is pretty common, however, blue daisy is uncommon in my country. In modern living people lives with many choices, occasions and styles. Multiple usage is one of my main ideas so that once it is interchange it gives a fresh look. It also easy to go well with different apparel and fashion style. It is rather fun too. A piece a jewelry is not only jewelry but it is also an expression. In various ways you wear it, that represent your mood or expression on that day. Whether to be classical, to be vibrant or to be versatile. When I started researching about this idea, I work out a mold first I play around before any development. I also wanted it to be elegant and lively, to give some 3D look and feel. By working on the technical part from the back because I want it to look hidden from the front, we can tweak the design by maintaining the beauty.

The blue and yellow color from the daisy is the best contrast and why I chosen blue sapphire and yellow sapphire is because they are tough but not hardest. Just like the nature of daisy, feminine but strong. Not the hardest stone like diamond I will choose because hardest can mean stubborn and for a feminine flower like daisy a hint of strength is their character. People associate blue to more masculine behaviour but my blue daisy design in not entirely masculine, but achieving charm and elegant yet extraordinary with the contrast.

I would say how to hide the hook and connector is a main issue. I work around the thickness and length and also curve. Numerous trials have been done to see if it easily falls off, break or visible from the front. After adding the earrings from dangle become stud, I need to consider the weight too. Therefore, the size butterfly back to hold the earrings is equally an important factor.

Considering daisy has many petals and overlapping each other, it is pretty challenge to make it lookalike especially with gemstone. In my case I have chosen marquise shape blue sapphire to represent the petals. With each of a tiny blue sapphire marquise, when combines with asymmetrical arrangement, it gives some hint of motion and 3D. Just like the flower is alive, moving happily, confidently in an open field with the wind blowing. This moment can be very free and attractive. This is the feeling I want the wearer to carry.

As a person who loves nature, I have special feeling when I am in touch with nature be it flower, trees, grass or any nature phenomenon or surroundings. Flower is just another living form and I feel I am so connected to it. That is where I get inspired and I want it to be a lasting emotion as real flower may not last but the collection I created can last for a lifetime. It contains memories and good feeling that stay true and intimate to yourself.

The collection is hand fabricated and the beauty of this workmanship is representing emotion and connection to human. It also proves that conventional craftmanship and deliver utmost quality and creativity as well. While balancing these two elements, various thought process and communication were involved. Since it is an interchangeable piece, the expectation of before and after shall be distinctive. Each piece needs to be design to its own character and when combine it becomes a surprise.

I have successfully portrayed this creation is a versatile piece, it challenges the conventional norm because it required a lot of thought and hard work to design and make. However, I strongly believe it can be mass produce and it does carry a strong commercial value to the market. The future of the jewelry design should be creative and innovative so that it carries the real value.

Yes I think the weight is an important factor especially considering after you add it to another piece. You may not use the reference from conventional jewelry. The technical aspects are entirely different but I love this challenge. I would love to create something out of the norm. Beside weight, thickness, length and workmanship to make it real polish, smooth and comfort for wearing. I also would like it to be tiny, tiny setting, tiny prong so it looks intricate and feminine.

From my background working in the corporate things were pretty much of bureaucracy therefore I shall say my previous working environment was restrictive. However, I have learned how to solve problems, how to handle stress and how to make decision. That can be an influence to my current design. Once I ventured into design industry, my idea became limitless, exponential and beyond imagination. It given me the opportunity to be daring and be different. While designing the piece, I have also learnt how to manage my own emotion partly lessons I gained from my previous corporate jobs.

Modern women are versatile, multi-tasking more than ever and sophisticated. They also want to be recognized, to stand out in the male dominant era. Therefore, modern women lifestyle can be various. They want to express confident, capable, strong and yet still carrying a family or feminine world. As the world is ever changing and it comes with so many options. It can be cluttered but human loves options and always be curious on new arrival. My collection fit in this group and gives them a different perspective of classical flower design can be modern too. In fact, not only modern but mobile and energetic.

Since the ring piece can be transform to be pendant, I do not want the original pendant to be big so it will look like a bail to the other two pendant pieces. The pendant or bail lookalike consists of an independent pendant which you can wear it alone for casual occasion. On the other options the earrings of the dangle part can also be pendant in which both pieces can connect with each other for a longish look of pendant. I used a concept of “dancing daisies” for the pendant whereby you can see the curve and when two pieces connected to each other it creates motion as well. Meanwhile it also touches safely on the skin. The technical solution is as the same principle whereby we work at the back of the design so the front aesthetic can be preserved.

The blue and yellow color from the daisy is the best contrast and why I chosen blue sapphire and yellow sapphire is because they are tough but not hardest. Just like the nature of daisy, feminine but strong. Not the hardest stone like diamond I will choose because hardest can mean stubborn and for a feminine flower like daisy a hint of strength is their character. People associate blue to more masculine behaviour but my blue daisy design in not entirely masculine, but achieving charm and elegant yet extraordinary with the contrast.

My background of marketing taught me how to observe, analyze and research about the market positioning, user behavioral and the be stand out from other marketing options. On the development part, for every new product development we need to go thought numerous processes from ideation to reality. It takes longer time even in the preparation but it definitely worth it. Therefore, patience and mental strength are indeed play a vital role. Having said that, sometime, taking outsider feedback can be greatly help as well.

Thank you for recognizing my creation and for the award. I am truly grateful. First, I have multiple drawing and then use mold to test out. For this I extended the length of the connector which at the back for the design, I was wondering how to secure the hook because I want it to be in motion not static. However, with motion means tendency for fall, therefore, certain length and thickness required. Beside mold I also use other metal type to test out such as brass, we then make adjustment accordingly.

While I have chosen to give a of motion and 3D representing the petals that is dancing freely and happily, the workmanship of the setting must be at tip top. Each part, connection, gemstone setting are carefully crafted and tested after the development. Some adjustment needs to make in order to achieve today’s result. I would say it has taken tremendous time and effort for the research and development of this collection. Because when we make transformable piece, we need to consider many factors of security, long lasting mechanism and maintenance.

There are numerous thoughts put in place to try how to hook three parts together, the independent pendant and the two additional pendant pieces. However, I shall say it wasn’t as difficult as the ring. Basically, I use the similar concept of the earrings. Besides sketches, I used mold to test out. Stability is always one of the concerns. Few modifications have been done before finally figured out to hide the connector we followed the pattern of the curving stalk of flower at the back. This case from the front you can’t see the hook at all and of course workmanship is utmost important for comfort wearing as well.

Loving nature this word is big, nature is big and collecting sea shell by the beach is one of the activities I love doing with surrounding nature like ocean, waves, sky, birds and cloud. And I considered flower is one of the natures living mechanism. I think with that in mind it is connected somehow or rather. Irregular forms to me is natural, organic and sense of freedom. This collection carries a lot of emotion, like sense of peace, sense of joy, sense of gratefulness and how you feel when you are with the nature. Pleasing moment I shall say.

People love variation, loves creativity. It is the evolution and another innovation from conventional. I designed this for modern women contemporary lifestyle but not forgetting the root you came from. We are all from mother nature. This collection is for modern women expression. In this era, women need to carry heavy responsibilities, be adaptable and need to build strong mental. Loving yourself, free to express and be courage.

I have successfully portrayed this creation is a versatile piece, it challenges the conventional norm because it required a lot of thought and hard work to design and make. However, I strongly believe it can be mass produce and it does carry a strong commercial value to the market. The future of the jewelry design should be creative and innovative so that it carries the real value.

Thank you for the compliment. As a designer, we express ourselves by designing and hoping it will be appreciated. In creative industry, it a long and challenging journey. Some advice I would like to offer to emerging designers about balancing creative vision with practical functionality will be put more thoughtful process, even it needs longer time and effort but that is part of parcel of the creation. Learn the technical skills of the making of jewelry, that complement your design and make practicality as part your design.

It was all started the idea of ring creation at first. I love seeing the blue daisy floating between fingers and I want it to be big. Like an extravaganza type of ring or a cocktail ring. I want it to look fancy and distinctive. So to hold the big flower, I need to have a strong, thick or heavy ring or shank. So basically the whole piece may look a little strong. Since one of the focuses of my blue daisy is on versatile and multifunctional or interchangeable, I started to think of brooch or pendant. Earrings is not the option because I want a pair design for earrings and ring piece, I only have one that could take out. However, after some thoughts, brooch is not possible due to technical aspect. But for pendant yes it will be a brilliant. Also, it goes well with my principle of multiple occasion of wearing. For occasion that wearer may not want to be flashy, a pendant is just nice. Suitable to simple casual outing or going to the office. After working, it can transform to a cocktail ring for an evening party or night out.

The blue and yellow color from the daisy is the best contrast and why I chosen blue sapphire and yellow sapphire is because they are tough but not hardest. Just like the nature of daisy, feminine but strong. Not the hardest stone like diamond I will choose because hardest can mean stubborn and for a feminine flower like daisy a hint of strength is their character. People associate blue to more masculine behaviour but my blue daisy design in not entirely masculine, but achieving charm and elegant yet extraordinary with the contrast.

My background of marketing taught me how to observe, analyse and research about the market positioning, user behavioural and the be stand out from other marketing options. On the development part, for every new product development we need to go thought numerous processes from ideation to reality. It takes longer time even in the preparation but it definitely worth it. Therefore patience and mental strength are indeed play a vital role. Having said that, sometime, taking outsider feedback can be greatly help as well.

There are numerous thoughts put in place to try how to hook on the shank. This is the most challenging part. Besides sketches, I used mold to test out. I even researched other product such as cabinet hinges, door hinges and other work for better understanding. But when it came to stability, it took me much concern. So, I figured out how a bracelet secure the closing, basically with a lock mechanism. That was the “AHA” moment. On the other hand, for the pendant, I have to think how to create the bail for the chain and avoid letting the hinge part create any discomfort on the skin, so I make the bail slightly larger at the back of the pendant.

Considering daisy has many petals and overlapping each other, it is pretty challenge to make it lookalike especially with gemstone. In my case I have chosen marquise shape blue sapphire to represent the petals. With each of a tiny blue sapphire marquise, when combines with asymmetrical arrangement, it gives some hint of motion and 3D. Just like the flower is alive, moving happily, confidently in an open field with the wind blowing. This moment can be very free and attractive. This is the feeling I want the wearer to carry.

I would not say departure of traditional design but it is more to having variety of styles and changes. It is the evolution and another innovation from conventional. My concept is versatile. There are many ways wearing a jewelry and we do not need to stick with one or two. There is no wrong way of wearing it as everyone has their own expression. Be courage to express your own unique value. Be yourself, be confident and be recognize, these are the attributes of modern women lifestyle.

The shank and ring need to be solid. The weight is an important factor especially considering holding another big piece. Therefore, center is the best aim. The connection between piece is better at the center. You may not use the reference from conventional jewelry. The technical aspects are entirely different but I love this challenge. I would love to create something out of the norm. Beside weight, thickness, length and workmanship to make the connection part smooth, precise and accurate. This is for the security and comfort for wearing.

I have successfully portrayed this creation is a versatile piece, it challenges the conventional norm because it required a lot of thought and hard work to design and make. However, I strongly believe it can be mass produce and it does carry a strong commercial value to the market. The future of the jewelry design should be creative and innovative so that it carries the real value.

Find your life purpose. Trust your intuition. Build your dream. Besides, have proper research, planning and mental preparation of this new venture. Prepare for challenging path ahead but for me I never regretted my decision. This journey has given me exponential growth, vast experience, opening up my mind, deep connection within yourself and motivation to work every day. Also sense of joy and fulfilment that uncommendable. I would advise not immediately jump into decision but carefully analyse all factors such as your support system, technical knowledge, execution plan and so forth. My favourite quote will be “Design Your Dream” by Ivy Teong.

To balance between element of design and execution always a contemplating one. Being a designer sometimes can think too much of an artistic person and may be easily neglect the execution part. When I first study about design I focus a lot on drawing but have limited knowledge on practicality. I overcome my limitation by further study on jewelry making and manufacturing hands on. With this knowledge, with every idea I have for design, I will think about both technical innovation and artistic expression. A great design must be wearable and meet some standard of industry requirement. Once it became a habit, you will not exclude this factor out of your creation. It is part of your creation.