Photo courtesy of Jewelmer.
With a storied heritage represented by its signature South Sea pearls, the French-Filipino brand now hopes for more Filipinos to resonate with their narratives through its handcrafted creations
In the passage of time, heirlooms transform into vessels for the stories that unfold in each wearer, becoming a facet of shared identity that spans generations. Since its acknowledgement as the Philippines’ national gem in 1996, the South Sea pearl has grown to not only stand as the country’s symbol for such familial traditions, but as the narrative that Jewelmer, the French-Filipino high jewelry Maison, hopes to captivate through its creations.
For the brand, utilizing the pearls to create its pieces came with understanding the communities and ecosystems that have allowed its gold-lipped oyster homes to thrive since the brand’s inception in 1979. Founded by Filipino entrepreneur Manuel Cojuangco and French pearl farmer Jacques Branellec, the two would later craft Jewelmer’s enduring legacy, where craftsmanship and conservation can coalesce. “The South Sea pearl is a gem born from grit and patience,” shared Jewelmer. “To cultivate a single gem takes 377 steps over five years. It endures shifting tides, changes in seasons, and the balance of nature and nurture before it emerges as its luminous form.”
Over the decades, the brand has amassed an ensemble of hatcheries that not only allow Jewelmer’s farmers to culture its pearl oysters but also to nurture their environment and maintain ecological balance. “Its very existence reminds us of the values of responsibility and community, of actively contributing to the betterment of the planet, putting Filipinos at the forefront of crafting a regenerative future.”
Through the steady growth of its brand and its family of artisans, Jewelmer’s creations have since adorned enthusiasts and collectors alike, from Palm Beach, Florida, to Tokyo, Japan. For the brand, this serves as a testament to Filipino artistry and its growing recognition among international audiences.
“Every Jewelmer creation stands as proof
Jewelmer
that Filipino talent can proudly shine among the world’s
most discerning, radiant in artistry and in spirit”
