2019/20 JEWELS & TIME 61SONIA ONG, 36
The executive director at the non-profi t Singapore Wellness
Association represents the modern, knowledgeable luxury
consumer. She refrains from making impulsive jewellery
purchases, instead choosing to do her research and
understanding the subject matter before making an informed
decision. “The decision to purchase is complicated by the
overwhelming choices available in the precious, semi-precious
and costume jewellery market today,” she says, adding that
her philosophy is to “learn as much as possible to make the
best decision possible”.
Your fi rst jewellery purchase... The fi rst most signifi cant
piece I acquired was a Yayoi Kusama Louis Vuitton
Pumpkin charm in yellow gold and lacquer. I’ve admired
her art for years, so I was really excited with the
collaboration. I remember walking into the pop-up store,
thinking I would buy a polka-dotted bag. Instead, I left with
one of 27 limited-edition pumpkin pendants in the world.
The thought of owning an original Yayoi Kusama artwork—
and not a reprint or lithograph—made the purchase very
compelling. It’s a solid gold pumpkin I can caress, display
and wear.
Acquisition criteria: design, brand or savoir faire?
Handcrafted design, the work of skilled craftsmen,
brilliant designers and the miracle of Mother Nature
seem to be an overriding theme in my jewellery collection.
I appreciate jewellery from both an artistic and an
investment perspective.
Recent acquisitions A pair of Bvlgari Serpenti earrings and
a Chopard Gold Imperiale Chalcedony ring.
Photography assistance:
ERIC TAN;
Fashion stylist:
JOEY TAN
Hair: CHRIS SIOW
using REVLON
PROFESSIONAL;
Makeup: ERNEST
LIM using GIORGIO
ARMANI BEAUTY