Matara Studio: The Thai Mikimoto, But Even Better!

When we talk about luxury pearl jewellery brands, Japan’s Mikimoto usually pops up onto our minds first. I used to think pearl jewellery was just for older women due to its generally conservative designs, but all that changed when I discovered Matara Studio.

Three Founders, Three Tributes 

Nine years ago, three close friends came together and created the very first pearl jewellery brand in Thailand. Their names are Khun Jin-Jongjin Jungsura (who is the youngest heir of ‘Khun Nongnuch-Khun Weerayut Jungsura’ and the granddaughter of ‘Khun Chaiwat Lueangamornlert’, who founded the Siam Park empire,) Khun Taengmo-Salil Anthaphan, and Khun Prae-Patchaploy Metharungsombat.

These three female executives and founders of Matara represent three unique styles of modern women with tributes that enable one to express their identities through the collection of accessories that one chooses to wear. For example, the smart-looking girl “Khun Prae” likes Matara Studio’s first signature collection that has a stylish design. Identity combines the diversity of real pearls. Matches with a simple, elegant, and contemporary design a timeless, classic design with criss-crossing lines which symbolizes multiplying. When worn, it is auspicious in various aspects. Silver serves as the base which makes it easy for girls who stand out to wear every day.

A stunning ring from the Matara Signature Collection, found on www.matarastudio.com
Whimsical, yet elegant Matara pearl earrings.

Ms. Jin especially likes the Matara Fine Jewelry collection, which is one of the collections she created in collaboration with Asia’s leading jewellery manufacturer S.Maneephand. It is a collection made up of of pearls, real diamonds, and white gold— the ultimate gemstones, shining brightly together. As for the pearls, they chose to use round white Akoya saltwater pearls that shines and sparkles with a modern, minimalist design, few details, cool and sour inside. For example, check out the elegant Matara London – Big Ben ring pictured below:

As for the cool girl “Khun Taengmo”, she prefers the Matara High Jewellery collection that features a beautiful, classic design made from natural pearl shells meticulously cut together with a high degree of craftsmanship, leaving it looking like a work of art.

The High Jewellery Collection, where pearls become a canvas to create art. From IG @matarastudio
Talk about creativity! Have you ever seen nail rings be so exquisite? From IG @matarastudio

The “Old Woman” Jewellery that Appeals to Teenage Girls

Matara has completely changed the game by making pearl jewellery a favourite among teenagers and young women. That being said, it was not a wonder the brand received the title of The Favourite Pair of Pearl Earrings for Teenagers. Matara pieces are perfect for every occasion, from simple everyday wear to special moments, including their gorgeous bridal collection, pictured below:

Pearl, Passion, Prosperity

Being a brand of genuine pearl jewellery, Jin Jongjin emphasizes that their products “must only be made from real pearls.” Their collections come with beautiful, classic, timeless designs. The body of each piece is typically crafted from sterling silver, which allows Matara to keep prices competitive. In fact, their prices range from 3,000 to 30,000 baht per piece (at time of writing, 1 USD was trading at a rate of 36.69 THB).

In addition, as a leading jewelry brand known for its exquisite craftsmanship, Matara selects beautiful pearls from around the world to create timeless, luxurious jewellery. This practice has led the brand to excellence, resulted in its 9th crowning as the most successful Thai jewellery brand on the international stage. Matara created new collections together with world-renowned jewellery designers and other luxury brands, to celebrate the opening of the brand’s 4th branch in Bangkok, a new boutique on the 2nd floor of Gaysorn Village.

A photo of Matara’s elegant store front, from IG@matarastudio

The Pearl holds a prestigious status in Thai society, especially among affluent circles and celebrities.  Known for its contemporary, unique and elegant designs, Matara is considered a symbol of status among Thailand’s elites. Thai celebrities and influencers often flaunt Matara pearls at prominent events, enhancing the brand’s esteemed reputation.

Beyond Thailand, Matara jewellery is also embraced by world-class celebrities and fashion models such as Heart Evangelista and Leonie Hanne while walking the prestigious red carpet at the 75th Cannes Film Festival as well as the 79th Venice Film Festival.

Matara has expanded globally, opening stores in Hong Kong, the UK, France, and the USA. With the introduction of the Matara High Jewellery line, the growth highlights their focus on craftsmanship and collaboration, as emphasised by the Matara Studio Company Limited’s marketing executive. The success of the brand also shattered the common idea that “close friends cannot work well together!” The Matara management team has demonstrated the importance of having confidence in each other’s duties.

Matara vs. Mikimoto

While Mikimoto’s designs are typically more traditional and understated, with an emphasis on the highest quality pears set in simple, elegant settings that highlight the pearl’s natural lustre and beauty. Matara’s designs are characterised by their bold and distinctive look, featuring pearls in unconventional settings, combined with other precious stones and metals.

Matara positions its brand as a modern luxury brand and aims at appealing to a clientele that values timeless elegance and top craftsmanship. Matara leverages its Thai heritage and creates designs that resonate with local cultural aesthetics while also speaking to the international market.

Cars for Boys, Pearls for Girls

Matara’s Pearl Bar is the heart of the brand, showcasing pearls in a variety of jewellery forms such as necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets that underscore their enduring beauty and versatility. Collaborating with renowned designers and artists, Matara creates exclusive pieces that celebrate the natural allure and individuality of pearls. With a promise to offer the perfect pearl for every woman. Matara also honours loyal customers with unique awards to reminiscent of the Academy Awards, adding a touch of prestige to their exceptional artisanship. 

The Matara Pearl Bar, where you can browse different pearls while enjoying a drink with friends. From IG @matarastudio

A Pearl Academy

If you are interested in learning more about pearls, explore Matara’s pearl library at their shops or on www.matarastudio.com, where you can discover different pearl shapes, their origins, and their role in the universe of fine jewellery.

In addition to its jewellery collections, Matara engages in various artistic collaborations and events, such as the ‘Empowered by Her Story” exhibition, which features pearl-adorned portraits of iconic women. The event underscores the brand’s commitment to celebrating women’s empowerment and beauty through its luxurious pearl jewellery.

Can you recognize this iconic masterpiece, and spot the whereabouts of the pearl jewellery? From IG@matarastudio

Visit Matara Studio in Bangkok, where their exclusive souvenirs from Thailand can be found in the following prestigious locations: Central Embassy (2nd floor), The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, The Peninsula Bangkok (Lobby), and Gaysorn (2nd floor). Don’t forget to follow them on social media @matarastudio.

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