Max & Chloe: Who are the founders of Charlene K?
CK: Charlene K was founded by husband and wife Gigi and Teong Kay. The collection originates from Beverly Hills and the line is named after the couple’s daughter Charlene.
MC: Why did you decide to create a jewelry collection?
CK: We have spent multiple decades in the fashion industry and founded several successful clothing lines along the way, including the enchanting Mandalay dress line (a celebrity favorite spotted often on the red carpet). Creating a jewelry line was a natural progression into helping women look more beautiful. The main reason for the collection is to give our daughter Charlene something of her own when she gets older - of course, only if she chooses.
MC: In your designs, you tend to gravitate toward more unconventional materials, like druzy, jasper, and stalactite, among others. Why do you enjoy working with these gemstones?
CK: We gravitate towards natural beauty and rare elements that most other designers are afraid of. It takes a lot of effort to work with such unique and precious pieces but we love to take the unconventional and make it lovable.
MC: How do you think that your background in fashion influenced your jewelry designs?
CK: After founding several successful clothing lines and a high-end dress line, we realized there was one more thing that women needed but we didn’t provide. A woman without jewelry cannot feel her best and we want to make every woman feel her best. We always believe that elegant and classic designs make for a timeless piece of jewelry for every woman’s collection.
MC: From where do you derive inspiration for your jewelry creations?
CK: Inspiration comes from everything – from interesting people we meet to new cities we travel to, but our goal is to always make every woman feel her most confident and strong.
MC: In three words, how would you describe the Charlene K Jewelry girl?
CK: Original. Elegant. Timeless.
MC: What do you think is an essential piece every girl needs and what is your must-have piece of jewelry?
CK: Charlene K’s essential piece of jewelry is our initial necklace. It is perfect for every day wear, a great layering piece, and it makes the perfect gift! Even Carrie Underwood has one. Our must have piece of jewelry is our double druzy rings. Druzy are tiny quartz crystals that occur naturally inside of stones. Our double druzy rings are beautiful and unique. Each ring is a little different, because the stones are natural, and that makes them super special. We offer a couple of color options on the site, pick your favorite!
MC: What advice do you have for aspiring jewelry designers?
CK: Find inspiration from everywhere you go! Keep your heart and mind open for new ideas and new creations. Believe in yourself and work hard and you can be successful.