Meet the Makers

Ona Chan Jewelry is Ona Chan’s eponymous brand, known for its silver jewelry, semi-precious stones, and crystals. Recently, she has been drawn to pearls and enamel work. Her frequent travels between Asia and the Americas, along with her exposure to different cultures, have brought diverse perspectives to her work. She enjoys combining technology, like computer-aided design, with traditional techniques to create exquisite silver rings, pendants, and more.

This AAPI Heritage Month, Ona emphasizes the importance of representation in all aspects of life. She envisions a future where everyone has the freedom to dream and access opportunities, regardless of their appearance. Ona hopes that representation extends beyond age, numbers, and lists. She believes that older Asians, like herself, can make a significant impact on the community and open more doors for everyone. “I want to be able to represent to my children that success comes by applying yourself, recognizing challenges, and adapting—and they are not excluded from success because of what they look like.”

Looking ahead, Ona aims to add longevity to her brand, which is built on 20 years of experience and patience. She aspires to create the perfect heirloom enameled ring, one that can be passed down from generation to generation.

She provided us with an important piece of advice: “Be open-minded and learn as much as you can so you know exactly what is going on. And don’t hate business math—learn the math and it will serve you well.”