Vat, Chen, Thai

We love Thailand. Exotic, spiritual, colorful and profound, it is a country of mystery and discovery. That’s why when we saw 360 Jewels it took us back to the contradiction of chaos and calm that embodies Bangkok. Designers May Vat and Belle Chen's jewelry line captures the essence of Thailand and brings exoticism home. Their pieces will spark conversation and curiosity. Vat, who was raised in the U.S. but whose parents are from Thailand went there for the first time several years ago and found that, once there, she couldn’t pull herself away. She stayed for several years. The seduction: Clear blue skies; flavorful food and fruits; the emerald colored sea; green mountains; ancient architecture and precious gemstones. Chen, Chinese by descent, was actually born and raised in Thailand. Her passion for jewelry was sparked when she visited a crystal factory in her mom’s hometown, Salzburg, Austria. She began to collect jewelry and then making it out of threads, beads and, yes, crystals.

In May 1999, Belle Chen and May Vat became friends, introduced by a mutual friend (still don’t believe in destiny?). They soon both quit their jobs to follow their passion. Today, Vat sketches the jewelry designs while Chen searches for precious stones in gemstone factories and mines in Thailand. Their pieces are made from 18K gold and up and 925 sterling silver with natural stones. Each design takes 3-5 months from initial design to production. The signature collection is priced from $400-$800. Buy here, http://www.360jewels.com/