Style Edit: Dazzling in Carnet Jewellery – founder Michelle Ong blends Eastern and Western aesthetics to craft timeless wearable art from natural diamonds

The visionary behind Carnet and its upscale designs, Ong brings a precise eye and a perfectionist nature to each piece of jewellery – two crucial qualities for designing such intricate pieces. While she is based in Hong Kong, Ong’s time studying in Canada influenced her designs, leading to a style that transcends borders, blending Eastern and Western aesthetics.

Beyond celebrity glamour, Ong has received numerous accolades for her impact on the jewellery industry, including the prestigious Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur from the French government.

Carnet pieces are made with only the finest materials, sourced by Ong’s partner and gem dealer, Avi Nagar. Ong has a special connection to natural diamonds, which she loves for their rarity, and believes no lab-grown diamond can compare.

To Ong, each unique diamond carries its own story and embodies the beauty and power of life. “I always tell my clients that only the natural diamonds they collect and wear connect them with that remarkable journey and strength,” she says. “They are truly unique and, in fact, the collector becomes the next part of the natural diamond’s never-ending story.”

Storytelling lies at the heart of all Carnet designs, into which Ong weaves art, power and timeless elegance. Her aim is to ensure that each piece remains relevant for generations to come.

“I also think jewellery carries forward part of the life of every owner,” she says. “It reflects both literally and symbolically the energy, the beauty and the sensibility of the owner.” The mother of three has expressed the desire to leave her children a meaningful piece of jewellery – something she describes as “a wearable connection to future generations”.