Jessie Koh turns silver into wearable pieces of Peranakan heritage

Jessie Koh, once a corporate professional, has found her passion in crafting handmade jewellery that celebrates Peranakan heritage. After years in the airline and telecommunications industries, she discovered her love for jewellery-making in 2018, founding Jessie’s Trinket Trove. Koh’s designs are heavily influenced by her Peranakan heritage, incorporating elements such as Nyonya batik and intricate designs from old Penang door frames.

Her signature pieces include colourful crystal necklaces and the intricate Warisan Peranakan cuff, which is among her most challenging creations. The cuff features a soft pink gemstone and floral motifs, taking around five days to complete. Koh’s Moonglade rings, characterised by candy-toned gemstones and rugged silver settings, have gained popularity and recognition from Kraftangan Malaysia.

Her Eternal Flora pendants showcase detailed engravings and high-grade stones. Koh melts, shapes, and sells silver by hand before refining each piece through sanding and polishing. She prefers jewellery with visible maker's hand, citing that highly polished pieces feel mass-produced. Koh currently works on a botanical series, experimenting with copper, bronze and brass.

Apart from her own creations, she shares her knowledge through workshops for beginners and experienced jewellery makers, aiming to preserve traditional techniques and inspire others to explore their own creative voice.