Discover the journey of Maazi Jewellery in an exclusive interview with its founder and explore the brand’s story, principles, and the founder’s relentless dedication that defines the essence of Maazi.

SECTION 1: ABOUT YOU

1. Would you share a bit about yourself and where you’re from?

My name is John, the founder of Maazi Jewellery, and I hail from the vibrant city of Hong Kong.

2. How did it all start?

The inception of Maazi Jewellery traces back to my quest for a diamond necklace. Upon discovering a trove of old jewelry in my grandpa’s pawn shop, I envisioned transforming these timeless pieces into modern designs, thus laying the foundation for the Maazi brand.

3. Was it always the intention to become a sustainable and ethical designer?

While not initially my explicit intention, my love for remade projects in my youth, like updating old clothes with sequins, sowed the seeds for a sustainable and ethical approach to my design philosophy.

4. What was it that first raised your awareness of the issue of fast fashion?

Witnessing the environmental toll of overproducing low-quality items that end up in landfills prompted my commitment to utilizing resources for producing high-quality, lasting fashion.

SECTION 2: ABOUT YOUR BRAND

1. Could you tell us more about your label?

Maazi, named after an ancient numeral system used by Hong Kong pawnbrokers, unveils treasures and stories. Our journey began by breathing new life into forgotten jewelry from pawnshops, evolving into a commitment to sustainable jewelry production.

2. What is the ethos when you design?

Our design ethos revolves around sharing authentic narratives and fostering deeper connections with those who wear our creations.

2.1 And what defines your style?

Our style can be defined in one word – fun!

3. What have been some of the biggest challenges for you on this journey?

Educating our audience about reclaimed diamonds has been a significant challenge. Some perceive them as lower quality, but in reality, recycled diamonds can be of high quality and desirability. Additionally, dispelling suspicions surrounding pre-owned jewelry and negative energy has been a hurdle we aim to overcome.

4. What do you want to achieve personally with your brand?

Personally, I aspire to see Maazi Jewellery become a catalyst for positive change in the fashion industry. Beyond creating beautiful and sustainable pieces, I aim to inspire a broader shift in consumer consciousness.

SECTION 3: YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE

1. How would you explain the importance of brands like yours making steps to become more ethical and sustainable to someone who isn’t well-versed in what that means?

I often emphasize the tangible impact of our choices. For instance, the carbon footprint of a 1-carat mined diamond equals a petrol car’s journey from Hong Kong to London. Sharing such facts often surprises people, prompting them to reflect on the environmental consequences of their decisions.

2. For the consumers, what are the easiest ways that we can all be more sustainable in our approach to fashion?

Embrace creativity! Experiment with different accessories, try diverse combinations and mix and match items in your wardrobe. Small changes in styling can lead to significant reductions in fashion waste.

3. In your own eyes, how has becoming a sustainable designer changed your life?

Personally, this shift has transformed the way I approach every aspect of the fashion cycle. From the way I shop—prioritizing quality over quantity and seeking out sustainable options—to a heightened awareness of packaging choices, every decision becomes an opportunity to contribute positively to the environment.

It’s not just a professional commitment but a lifestyle change that influences how I interact with fashion on a daily basis.

4. People say that sustainable fashion is too expensive or too difficult to do. How do you usually respond to that?

It’s a nuanced challenge. While it’s true that sustainable methods may currently be less readily available and can pose difficulties, the evolving landscape is showing increased accessibility. The long-term benefits to the environment and industry make the effort worthwhile, even if it comes with initial challenges.