"An original product design that thoughtfully merges cultural references with inspirations drawn from natural phenomena."
-------- Review from Future Art & Design Award


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Project description
Xu Jiawen Karmen is a distinguished handcrafted jewellery designer celebrated for her unique ability to intertwine oriental aesthetics with the profound wisdom of Chinese philosophy. After earning her MBA Degree from the London Business School/University of Hong Kong, Karmen further deepened her understanding of global dynamics by studying Middle Eastern geopolitics at the University of Cambridge. This combination of rigorous academic training and critical thinking has shaped her into a modern-day Renaissance woman.
Karmen’s passion for ancient civilizations and spiritual traditions—including Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism—enhances her creative sensibility. She devotes years to practicing mindfulness meditation, which significantly influences her artistic process, allowing her to approach design with introspection and awareness.
As a fervent advocate for Chinese civilization, Karmen’s jewellery captures the essence of oriental philosophy and aesthetic principles, embodying an elegance that is both subtle and profound. Her creations pay homage to China’s rich understanding of the universe's laws and the harmonious wisdom found in the concept of "the middle way." For Karmen, designing jewellery transcends mere craft; it is a cherished meditation that promotes self-awareness. Through her work, she invites others to appreciate the beauty of Chinese heritage and reconnect with timeless traditions and their intrinsic wisdom.
“The Royal Coral” pendant necklace
The white jade bodhi seeds give a soft and elegant glow. The red grass coral buckle is like a burning sunset. The turquoise ornament is carved with exquisite rolling cloud patterns, shining like the green waves. The design embodies oriental aesthetics and elegant demeanor, aspired by the luxurious and dignified ancient princess Turandot. When moving, the fragrance of bodhi seeds, the brilliance of coral, and the refinement of turquoise complement each other, exhibiting in full the charm of a royal Eastern beauty.

