Video: Venchi

About Eden and Elie

Eden + Elie, a distinctive brand founded by Stephanie Choo and co-founded by Leon Toh in 2018, stands at the intersection of business, design, and social good. Stephanie, with a background in architecture and design, brought her passion for human-centered and innovative design to the forefront, envisioning a brand that could not only offer unique, handcrafted jewelry but also create positive impacts on lives and communities.

Stephanie's journey began in the U.S., where she honed her skills as an architect and design professional. Her international experience leading design and strategy projects for various entities laid the foundation for her commitment to the transformative power of design in the marketplace and society. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree from MIT and a Master of Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, Stephanie embarked on a mission to blend craftsmanship with purpose.

Leon Toh, joining as a Co-Founder, was inspired by Eden + Elie's design-centric approach and socially-focused mission. With a background rooted in impact investing and a commitment to solving global challenges through innovative solutions, Leon brought a wealth of experience to the brand. As the founder of Damson Capital, an impact investment holdings company, he had already been dedicated to developing social enterprises in Asia.

The core philosophy at Eden + Elie revolves around the art of handmade creations. In a world dominated by industrialized products, the brand offers a unique aesthetic, ensuring that each piece is a testament to the centuries-old traditions of handcrafting. The jewelry, be it woven off-loom or on a loom, reflects the tapestry of human expression, showcasing form, function, color, and meaning.

Handmade, for Eden + Elie, is not just a stylistic choice; it's a commitment to providing fair and sustainable work for artisans and communities that might otherwise be excluded from the premium market of high-design goods. Through hand-intensive techniques and basic tools, the brand empowers individuals and contributes to the flourishing of communities.

The meticulous design process involves creating weaving patterns, charting and graphing bead sizes, finishes, and colors. Prototypes are crafted and refined until the pieces achieve the desired color, texture, and fit. Each collection undergoes a rigorous prototyping phase, ensuring consistency in production while preserving the individual characteristics of handmade pieces.

Eden + Elie's commitment to responsible sourcing is evident in its selection of reputable and ethical suppliers. The brand prioritizes premium materials, with delica seed beads from the oldest manufacturer in Japan, known for their precision and uniformity. The intricacies of bead weaving demand the use of gel-spun polyethylene, one of the strongest threads available. Jewelry structures, forged in 22k and 24k gold plating, 14k gold-fill, 18k rose gold plating, pure copper, or sterling silver, reflect a commitment to quality and durability.

The brand's choice of 22k and 24k gold-plated materials, along with lead-free structures, not only ensures product confidence but also addresses durability in humid weather. Eden + Elie stands behind its products, urging customers to care for their jewelry to maintain its longevity.

In essence, Eden + Elie is more than a jewelry brand; it's a manifestation of design excellence, social responsibility, and a celebration of the timeless artistry of handmade creations.