L-R: Simone Ng, Patty Denjaruwong, Katerina Perez, Dr. Jade Kua
According to Simone Ng, the Executive Creative Director of Singapore jewellery brand Simone Jewels, the label’s current Bombshell collection is inspired by women who challenge the status quo. And what better way to celebrate the glamorous and fanciful range by teaming up with women who embody style, grace, and the know-how in their chosen fields. Here, we meet three of the brand’s muses who define what it means to be a leading lady in the 21st century.
DR. JADE KUA
Consultant with the Department of Emergency Medicine, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, and the Ministry of Health’s Unit for Pre-hospital Emergency Care
How would you define “Leading Lady” in your own terms, especially in the 21st century?
This is a great century for women because of the support we are finally getting. Thanks to the wonderful community around me and international support, I’m not just a leading lady – I’m a leader.
What is the quality you think a leading lady would require to influence in today’s society?
I lead at the speed of trust.
Can you tell us what role jewellery plays in your daily life? How does it make you feel when you have it on?
I’ve always appreciated the art and science behind gemstones. It’s history, geology, and chemistry all rolled into one. It fascinates every nerdy fibre of my being.
How did you meet Simone and what drew you to her jewellery?
I was introduced to her at a society jewellery event. I love the stones she uses and the designs she renders, turning everything into a masterpiece. My first acquisition from Simone was a padparadscha ring set like a tiara, then a pink diamond with a beautiful cross. I also have a stunning Tanzanite and pearl necklace that can be worn in many ways. My favourite piece is a bangle made with star sapphires.
Zambian Emerald and diamond ring
KATERINA PEREZ
International jewellery insider
How would you define “Leading Lady” in your own terms, especially in the 21st century?
In my mind, a Leading Lady of modern times is someone with a strong personality who leads by example. She is passionate, fearless, determined, and knows what she wants and how to achieve her goals.
What is the quality you think a leading lady would require to influence in today’s society?
People naturally gravitate towards those who have a kind heart and charisma, who genuinely care for the world around them, and radiate happiness. So if you combine these qualities with what I have described in the first question, you will get a perfect Leading Lady of modern times.
Can you tell us what role jewellery plays in your daily life? How does it make you feel when you have it on?
Precious jewellery makes my day. It is an integral part of my life and I do not wait for a special occasion to put my diamonds on. Instead, I wear jewellery as a means of self-expression, so earrings, rings, bracelets, or a necklace are always a part of my look like “a cherry on top” for all outfits.
How did you meet Simone and what drew you to her jewellery?
I met Simone a few years ago. First online, and then we finally met at the IJL exhibition in London. I was pleasantly surprised by her creativity and imagination from the first moment I saw her jewellery in the photos. When I finally held a few rings in my hands, I realised that I have met a true jewellery artist. Simone has never created any simple or boring jewellery. Even her everyday pieces are enriched with creative elements that make them alluring!
Unheated peridot and diamond earrings
Blue spinel and diamond earrings
PATTY DENJARUWONG
Entrepreneur and designer, Innit
How would you define “Leading Lady” in your own terms, especially in the 21st century?
A Leading Lady is a woman who’s happily making the world a better place. She doesn’t have to be the most successful businesswoman. She can be anyone who does her best so that she can make a difference in this world.
What is the quality would you think a leading lady would require to influence in today’s society?
To be sincere and genuine in all your interactions.
Can you tell us what role jewellery plays in your daily life? How does it make you feel when you have it on?
For me, the right kind of jewellery has to represent my character. Looking at jewelry from a showcase is very different from when you try it on. Sometimes, a simply designed piece of jewelry is like the perfect finishing touch to represent the true you. My everyday outfit is usually in simple and in monochromatic shades, so I always choose a nice pair of earring to boost my confidence for the day.
How did you meet Simone and what drew you to her jewellery?
The first time I met Simone, I was immediately drawn to her jewellery designs, even when she was just taking about her design process. This was probably due to the fact that I approach designing garments the same way – my clothing designs are versatile and can be worn in several ways.
As for Simone, not only does she design extraordinary jewellery silhouettes with the perfect matching gemstones, she also designs it in a transformative way where you can remove and attach parts, allowing you to choose the best way of wearing it to suit any occasion.
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