Jewels may be a luxurious indulgence, but they can also be a powerful force for good. This is the philosophy behind MUS Zenith Affair’s annual fundraiser for Dementia Singapore, a social service agency dedicated to caring for those living with dementia. Now in its fifth year, the ‘Gems from the Heart’ initiative has taken on a new dimension with an exclusive collection designed by five guest connoisseurs, each bringing their unique perspective to the theme of ‘Hearts and Arrows.’
The fundraiser operates on a ‘give while you get’ principle, with donations matched by a gift of jewellery from MUS.za, or a range of curated accessories and gifts from the brand’s network of partners. The idea was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when Dementia Singapore urgently required test kits. MUS.za founder, Esther Ho, a businesswoman and jewellery consultant, was inspired to get involved. What began as a goal of $20,000 quickly expanded to $100,000, driven by Ho’s commitment to making a significant difference. This year, they’re aiming even higher, setting a goal of raising $300,000.
Among the guest designers are private investor Wendy Long, MTM Labo managing director Kelly Keak, homemaker Patricia Kaunang, philanthropist Tai-Heng Cheng, and MUS.za’s own chief designer Christine Yip. Each designer has infused their personal stories and interpretations into their creations. Patricia Kaunang’s playful design, inspired by Korean television shows, features pairs of gemstones set at an angle on an arrow-shaped brooch. Wendy Long’s On Point suite, crafted with carnelian hearts and diamond-set rose gold arrows, evokes a sense of precision and intention. Kelly Keak’s Brighter Hearts earrings and necklace, sectioned into tiers of pavé diamonds and a heart of yellow gold, symbolize generosity and warmth.
Christine Yip’s Open Heart brooch, incorporating a diamond-set open heart backed by a yellow gold arrow, plays on the Mandarin words ‘kai xin,’ translating to ‘happy’ or ‘open heart.’ Perhaps the most imaginative designs are Tai-Heng Cheng’s Nails and Souls, inspired by a 1907 experiment that suggested the weight of a human soul is 21 grammes. The collection includes bracelets, a lapel pin, and a ring, each weighing 21 grammes and featuring gemstones like tourmalines and diamonds weighing 2.10 carats. The ring, designed as an ornamental box for cherished objects, conceals a 2.10ct diamond beneath a screwed-on gold lid.
Ho has put a temporary pause on her own work to focus on crafting these extraordinary guest designer pieces, which took approximately two weeks to complete. The most challenging design, the casket ring by Cheng, is a one-of-a-kind piece. The remaining pieces, alongside a selection from MUS.za’s own collection, are available for purchase. You can explore the collection on the brand’s Instagram page or visit the boutique at Raffles Arcade. A portion of the proceeds will go to Dementia Singapore, and donations can also be made online. The ‘Gems from the Heart’ fundraiser runs until November, offering a unique opportunity to acquire exquisite jewellery while supporting a worthy cause.
