The Way Of The Orient

Pioneer Of "China Chic", Jewellery Brand Qeelin Invites You To Discover The Charms Of The East Through The Art Of Fine Jewellery

- CAROLINE SUGANDA

When it comes to elevating mystical and auspicious Oriental symbols through fine jewellery, Qeelin is the OG. Since its inception in 2004, the brand has inhabited this unique space where contemporary elegance meets timeless cultural heritage.

Named after the qilin, a mythical creature from Chinese lore regarded as an icon of love and good fortune, the luxury house was founded by designer Dennis Chan who envisioned a fine jewellery brand strongly rooted in Chinese culture.

Together with co-founder Guillaume Brochard, a Parisian with a passion for art and design who lent his artistic vision to the brand, Chan has succeeded in re-interpreting the rich tapestry of Chinese culture via jewellery collections with a distinctive charm. And since its launch in Paris nearly 20 years ago, Qeelin has continually sought to convey the captivating narratives of China’s cultural heritage to a global audience.

In striving to bridge the gap between ancient Chinese symbolism and modern sensibilities, Qeelin is, at its very core, a brand that crafts fine jewellery which embodies tradition and goodwill while celebrating the spirit of innovation.

After all, the creative force behind the brand is a Hong Kong native who has an innate appreciation for his heritage.

With an illustrious background in the jewellery industry, Chan had set out to create something unique — and succeeded. Qeelin’s signature Wulu collection, which takes its inspiration from the legendary gourd known as the hulu in Chinese mythology, became an immediate hit that catapulted the brand into the international limelight after Hong Kong film star Maggie Cheung wore it at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.