Jessie Koh turns silver into wearable pieces of Peranakan heritage

Jessie Koh, formerly a corporate professional, has turned her fascination with her Peranakan heritage into a thriving jewellery business, Jessie’s Trinket Trove, established in 2018. Before pursuing her craft, Koh worked in the airline and telecommunications industries for six years. Her love for jewellery began when she acquired a small kit to make her own pieces, inspired by her mother’s creations.

Koh honed her skills, developing a signature style of whimsical necklaces made of colourful crystals and wire-wrapping. However, she eventually sought more intricate designs, leading her to metalsmithing. One of her standout pieces, the Warisan Peranakan cuff, features a soft pink gemstone and intricate floral motifs, taking around five days to complete.

Koh emphasizes the importance of preserving handmade jewellery in a market dominated by mass-produced items. Her designs often incorporate elements from Peranakan tiles and door carvings, showcasing her deep connection to her heritage. Koh's Moonglade rings, with their candy-toned gemstones and rugged organic character, have gained popularity and recognition by Kraftangan Malaysia.

The Eternal Flora pendants feature detailed engravings and striking high-grade stones. Koh meticulously melts, shapes, and sells silver by hand, refining each piece through melting, shaping, carving, soldering, sanding, and polishing. Although silver is her primary medium, Koh experiments with copper, bronze, and brass, often finding inspiration in everyday places like hardware stores.

Beyond her own creations, Koh shares her knowledge through workshops for beginners and experienced jewellery makers, aiming to keep traditional techniques alive and inspire others to develop their creative skills.