"We didn't prong set. We could have, but didn't. Tension-setting aligns with the lotus philosophy, it gives the jewelry soul. We also use Feicui because this material is a special gemstone; it glows from within. This is the idea of the philosophy of a lotus. It's you; the stillness inside of yourself is meant to radiate outward."
Elegant, modern, and graphic are three words Lieou used to describe his design. "I think modernity is key. By distilling elements into clean graphic ways, we convey both theme and emotion.
"I really designed it for a contemporary lifestyle. Its jewelry meant to move with you, from the gym to lunch."
Born in Hong Kong, China, Lieou pursued jewelry design studies at renowned institutions in London and New York, such as Central Saint Martin, the Royal College of Arts, and the Fashion Institute of Technology.
"I loved art and design from a young age, but I didn't know which industry, which creative industry to be in. And then going to the UK, the schooling there guided me, and I ended up in the jewelry industry. I'm very happy because what I really love about jewelry, especially high jewelry, is that in a very small object, fine details make a big difference, the way the diamond is set, the way the angle of the metal is finished, and the detailing."
Lieou designed a collection for Sotheby's Diamonds in 2020. His design philosophy is inspired by his diverse background and international upbringing, seamlessly blending the artistry of the East and the West.
After being in the UK and in New York for many years, coming back to Hong Kong, China and especially Chow Tai Fook is a wonderful homecoming for Lieou.
"Chow Tai Fook is very much ingrained and intertwined in the fabric of this city. I remember going to Chow Tai Fook as a child and my parents buying gold nuggets for weddings. That tradition stayed with me. Creating high jewelry for Chow Tai Fook feels like celebrating Chinese culture through craftsmanship."
Since its founding in 1929 in Guangzhou, Chow Tai Fook has developed high-level craftsmanship in processing materials such as gold, diamonds, Feicui, and pearls. They have always aspired to create high jewelry.
"With over 40 years of economic reform and opening-up, China's economy has rapidly developed, and consumer demand for luxury jewelry has increased. There is a significant demand for high jewelry materials and craftsmanship. Therefore, we believe now is an opportune time to launch Chow Tai Fook's high jewelry line. Additionally, as a Chinese jewelry brand, we wish to showcase the beauty of China to the world through jewelry," said Wong.
"The jewelry industry carries cultural significance. We can contribute to the national economic development while also promoting Chinese culture nd aesthetics abroad. Outside China, we have already established a strong market in Southeast Asia, such as in Malaysia and Singapore. In the future, we aim to expand further into international markets."
