ARAO’s Coral Collection is a limited edition South Sea Pearl fine jewellery line that draws inspiration from marine life in the province of Palawan, Philippines. Since it was established in 2019, the brand has always rooted its identity on advocating for the conservation of the ocean. “It only makes sense that we would focus our efforts on saving our seas, especially in Palawan where our pearls are responsibly sourced,” says founder, Mirabel Rosar. “It’s our way of giving back to the source that has so generously given us the world renowned South Sea gems."

 

 

 

 

It was in August when the Coral collection debuted at the Philippines’ largest and most awaited trade fair, the ArteFino Festival. A booth inspired by the underwater universe was mounted, highlighting the natural luster and impeccable workmanship of each piece of jewelry. Mirabel explains, “Our participation in ArteFino was considered as the main launch of ARAO in the Philippines. Hence, it was only appropriate to showcase the best golden South Sea pearl jewelry that we could source, inspired by Philippine marine life.” During the weekend-long celebration of Philippine design and craft, ARAO also introduced a special range of artisanal basket bags, handmade by artisans of Uswag Artesano in Leyte.The idea was to amplify the call to protect our seas through collaboration, partnership, and mutual support. “The bags are part of the Coral Collection,” Mirabel clarifies. “The vision is to grow and expand this collection into other product categories in the future.” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the months following the Philippine launch, ARAO has also brought the message of marine conservation to various pocket events around Hong Kong. When the Coral Collection, the main idea was to explore how fine jewellery can be used as a tool for creating positive impact. “Our participation in these events serve as a launch pad or platform where we can convey the message of marine conservation to our guests.” They also present an opportunity for audiences to play an active role in ensuring the future of our oceans.A portion ofARAO’s sales proceeds are dedicated to the Community-Centered Conservation (C3) Philippines through the Adopt-a-Bahura programs. “It protects and restores coral reels in Diapnay in Calawit, Palawan. Diapnay is a one-hectare reef that is envisioned to become a community-managed marine-protected area (MPA,)” MIrabel explains. 

To date, the Coral Collection has been showcased in exclusive shopping events at Novel Fineries in Peninsula Hong Kong, The Upper House, Parallel 51 on Hollywood Road, Central and at the Soluna Fine Art Gallery at Sheung Wan. Soon, members of Carlyle and Co. on the Victoria Dockside will enjoy a private preview of the Coral Collection. 

 

 

L-R Lesley Nocom, Roslyn Pineda, Mirabel Rosar and Karrie Bitanga

 

 

Roslyn Pineda wearing ARAO's Coral Earrings in 18K White Gold

 

 

Rebecca Ling, Parallel 51 Founder with Mirabel Rosar

 

 

L-R Jaerey Velasco, Lawyer at Payne Velasco, Samantha Fong, Founder of Nestology Studioand Mirabel Rosar

 

 

Soluna Fine Art Gallery

 

 

L-R Yumiko Skurr, Mirinai Choi and friend 

 

 

DESIGNING THE CORAL COLLECTION

Coral formations found in Philippine seas were models forARAO’s newest fine jewellery collection. We tied up with Novel Fineries Founder, June Kimberley Lau to do the design. Mirabel details, “We used real-life images of Philippine corals during design development. Pieces from the collection also showcase the best-quality pearls we could get our hands on, some of which we have had for years now.We used round golden south sea pearls, but combined really big ones with smaller ones.  We also utilized a lot of diamonds to add some sparkle and set them in 18 carat gold.”A flawless, 16mm South Sea Pearl with a rich golden hue, for instance, is cocooned by a stunning ring that follows the unique shape of corals. “Our design for this collection also tries to convey the nurturing role of our corals. They care for a quarter of all known marine species. The corals embracing the pearls show how it nurtures the rare gem from conception to birth. ”

 

 

Coral Ring Band in 18K Yellow Gold

 

 

Coral Dangling Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold

Coral Pendant in 18K Yellow Gold

 

Coral Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold

 

Coral Ring in 18K Yellow Gold