Kolmio Jewellery

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Jewellery Design

If you are looking for the perfect contemporary design in jewellery, then look no further. Locally grown and locally manufactured, Kolmio Jewellery. Each element in their Collection pieces has been thought through, and each piece is inspired by elements found in South Africa.

Collections

The Lijn :

Inspiration for this collection derives from close up details of the Protea flower and deconstructing them to create a minimalist look.

Minimalist:

Beautiful pieces for the classic minimalist

Collectables:

A collection of limited edition collectable, wearable precious metal masterpieces.

Fancy Fancy:

This collection consists of mostly once-off pieces for the flamboyant.

Smeltkroes:

This collection reflects the artists South African and Dutch Heritage.

Not only do I get to introduce the amazing collections above, but I also have the priviledge of introducing you to Tracey van Heerden, the owner and creative behind Kolmio.

Q & A with Kolmio Jewellery

Introduction:

I am Tracey, and I always knew there’s more to life than just doing what’s been expected of you. While my friends at school were interested to go study Engineering, Medical, Accounting or Science, I wanted to do something creative and different. Since I was little, I always had a piece of paper and a crayon of some sort to draw something in the moment. I believe that I was created to create, as the crayons and pencils never left my side. When it was time to start deciding what to do for a career, I choose to look into doing something creative. I grew up in Heidelberg, Gauteng and went to study a BA Visual Arts degree in Creative Jewellery Design and Metal Techniques in 2011 at the University of Stellenbosch. I graduated in 2014 and  moved back to Heidelberg and started working as a Goldsmith in Training at a local jewellery studio, Moonraker Design. After two years, it was time for a new challenge. My husband and I got married in 2016 and I followed my heart and began Kolmio.

When did you start and why?

Mid 2016. Although it was exciting to work for someone else, I always felt the need to design and manufacture things my own way. Starting my own brand and expressing my own style through jewellery. I find working for myself to be exhilarating, challenging and much more satisfying.

Describe Kolmio in five words

Contemporary, Unique, Personal, Quality, Bespoke

What  challenges have you faced whilst running your company thus far?

As a sole-proprietor, it’s a great challenge to balance my work-life and personal-life. Having your own business often asks of you to work hours that overlap with your “after hours”.

How do you overcome these challenges?

Prioritise the things you absolutely have to do every day and plan how to do them effectively. Practice mindfulness and take one task at a time.

What do you love about owning your own business?

Being my own boss and working flexible hours to get everything done each day.

Which job title best describes you?

Contemporary Jewellery Manufacturer

How many days per week do you work on average?

5 – 6 days a week. I commit to having at least 1 rest day. This gives me time to relax and to plan my week ahead.

Name three things that you can’t go a day without and that help you run your business.

My workshop, daily exercise and a good cup of coffee.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to start their own business or brand?

Make your brand personal. Be yourself at all times and show your personal style through your designs and products. Spend time with your mentors and people that inspire you. It will help you distinguish exactly what you want to do with your own brand and how to approach certain challenges. Be patient and observe. Always spend time with positive people and those who uplift you as they become the people that will support you most during your career.

Do you feel like you are living your passion?

Absolutely! I love how diverse my job is and to work with my hands and create something out of nothing. Each day is filled with it’s own challenges, from sitting at my desk drawing up designs to making big business decisions. There’s a time to be creative, to manage your business and meet up with clients.

Is there anything you know now, that you wish you knew when you started your business?

To be more patient and be less critical of my own work. Sometimes you have to give yourself some space, to unfold something extraordinary.

Which people have been enormously helpful to you?

Firstly, my dad. He helped me choose my degree option and motivated me to start my own business. Eska, from Eska Claire gave me a sneak peek of the life of a Goldsmith whilst I still was in school and sparked my interest in Jewellery Design. Maryke, from Moonraker Design, where I gained valuable experience in the industry. And lastly, my husband. He’s my number one supporter and hero. Helping me through the challenges that come along everyday and keeping me positive and motivated.

Who is your target market? If I were to give you a referral, who would I be looking for?

Wedding jewellery. I love being a part of a couple’s journey and creating their special jewellery for lasting memories.

Any future plans with the brand?

Collaborating with other creatives in future projects. We’ll be at more markets and exclusive exhibitions to increase brand awareness. My dream is to have an exclusive jewellery shop together with a beautifully curated coffee shop. Classy, minimalist and cosy. Watch this space 🙂

A look at the collections:

The most important point that Tracey makes and what resonated with me the most is:

“Make your brand personal. Be yourself at all times and show your personal style through your designs and products”.

Tracey and I have something very exciting planned, so make sure that you stay in the loop on both our pages:

Kolmio Website: Click here

Kolmio Instagram: Click here

Kolmio Facebook: Click here

 

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