About Mong
My Story with Mong: A Journey Through Vietnam's Ethnic Diversity
Mong wasn't born in a single place, but on a journey that spanned various regions of the world—but especially Vietnam. The H'Mong, whose homeland lies in the mountains of Sapa, North Vietnam, were the first, but only one of many, companions on my journey of discovery through traditional handicrafts. The name "Mong" is a deep connection to this past and is derived directly from the H'Mong—a conscious choice to keep their essence alive in each of my pieces of jewelry.
Encounters with the mountain peoples
Sapa was a special place for me. The breathtaking mountain scenery, the steep rice terraces, the colorful traditional clothing of the H'Mong – all of this left a deep impression on me. But my journey took me further. I also learned from the Dao, the Thai, and other ethnic groups, each of whom cultivated their own unique craft traditions. Each encounter was an immersion into a new world of colors, patterns, and techniques.
On unknown paths
Every trip was different and often a true adventure. Sometimes I was on the road for days, driving through narrow mountain roads, searching for contacts, for small manufacturers, for the stories behind the crafts. It wasn't always easy. Unfamiliar paths and the challenges of communication—often more through gestures than words—all this made each stage unforgettable. I remember countless moments: women weaving their fabrics with astonishing skill, silversmiths working with incredible precision, shared meals and hearty laughter.
From fabrics to gold: The development of my work
Over time, my work continued to evolve. What began with fabrics led to my first experiments with macramé jewelry, then to soldering silver, and finally to working with gold and gemstones. Each step was part of this larger journey of discovery through the rich craft culture and the stories I collected on my travels. Mong is now a collection of these memories, encounters, and stories.
Mong: Stories that continue to be told
When I design a piece of jewelry today, I think back to all those moments. The women of Sapa, the artisans in the remote mountain villages, the countless journeys that brought me here. Every piece from Mong is my way of continuing to tell these stories. It's a bridge between the traditional craftsmanship of Vietnam's hill tribes and the modern world—carried by emotions, memories, and the essence of my journey.