BITS OF BALI

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In the glittering world of luxury jewellery, where opulence often overshadows ethics, there exists a beacon of sustainability and soulful craftsmanship: Bits of Bali. Each piece in this exquisite collection tells a story – not just of beauty and elegance, but of resilience, personal triumph, and a deep reverence for nature’s treasures. What sets Bits of Bali apart is the personal touch that Sri Utami infuses into every piece. Each creation reflects her journey—a journey of dedication and an unwavering belief in the power of beauty to transform lives.

Born from her experiences as a documentary photographer in conflict zones, Sri found solace in the world of jewellery—a sanctuary amidst adversity. “When I was working in these dangerous places, I had to cover myself in modest clothes and cover myself in hijabs and wear a lot of jewellery underneath. For me, it made me feel beautiful and more confident to do my job,” explains Sri.

Settling in Bali in her early thirties marked the turning point. “The demanding nature of my photography career led me to seek stability and a new direction. I was driven by a desire to create something that would make me happy, so I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and creativity,” says Sri. Her background in photography lent her a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the beauty in simplicity, guiding her towards a style that is both elegant and timeless. With modest savings and a vision, she created her first ring, which sold for $300. This sale was reinvested into her burgeoning business, but the journey was far from easy. “I sacrificed everything I had to ensure the quality of my jewellery remained uncompromised. If this meant only eating instant noodles for nine months, so be it,” Sri. Her struggle instilled a sense of urgency and determination that propelled her forward. Just nine months later, with no financial backing or investors, she launched Bits of Bali.

Targeting the mid-range market, her designs stood out in Bali’s crowded jewellery scene, known for its intricate and ethnic styles. She aimed to create pieces that were simple, versatile, and elegant—jewellery that could be worn both on vacation and back home. Each piece is designed to be worn alone or layered, allowing customers to express their personal style.

Bits of Bali is not just about luxury; it’s about responsibility. Sri is committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Using high-quality gemstones, gold, and sterling silver, she honours the natural beauty of these materials. Each gemstone is hand-selected for its unique qualities, ensuring that every piece is special. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to creating jewellery that lasts a lifetime, balancing accessibility with durability. “When you have the best quality product that Mother Nature creates, you want to be respectful of that. Let the gemstone take centre stage. It takes Mother Nature thousands of years to make it, so don’t butcher it. We produce the best quality possible so every piece can be cherished for a long time,” she emphasises. “We support and practise ethical labour, paying more than fair wages and working with small, family-owned businesses.” While not claiming to be fully sustainable, the brand focuses on producing high-quality pieces that are cherished for years, countering the fast-fashion trend.