So Precious

Hailing from Israel, D&A Jewellery co-founders and sisters Daria and Anna Ginsburg talk investment gems, jewellery design and setting up their first flagship boutique in Singapore

- ALLYSON KLASS

How did both of you get into the jewellery business?

Anna: Our dad owned a jewellery factory, so we were immersed in the world of gems and jewellery design since we were children.

Then, 12 years back, we decided to start our own business. However, our first foray into the industry wasn't jewellery design, but in sourcing, cutting and selling gemstones. We focused so much on gem-cutting that we established our own lapidary factory in Armenia, where its artisans are renowned for their craftsmanship and 3D modelling.

Daria: Working with gems ultimately led us to create our own pieces at D&A Jewellery about seven years ago. Instead of cutting our stones in the conventional fashion, we had many fancy cuts and started working with unique gems as well. Finding alternative ways to cut stones inspired us and ignited our creativity, as we'd imagine how the gem or gems would look on a piece of jewellery. We even started advising jewellers on designs we thought best suited a particular gemstone, so it was a natural progression. With our brand, we're able to transpose our knowledge, passion and interests in gemology into our jewellery, and interpret the beauty of the stones in our own style.

What led you to open a boutique at ION Orchard?