ABOUT US
Meet the founder
Hello, I’m Emma, the founder of HYE.
HYE comes from my Korean name, Joo Hye. Growing up between Korean, American, and British influences has shaped who I am, and I think you can see a little bit of all three in HYE.
I spent 15+ years building a career in fashion. Then I left the corporate world to take a chance on the jewellery business I’d been quietly building on the side. I found out I was pregnant almost immediately.
Two years, a baby, countless markets and one tiny shop later... here we are.
Fashion has always been a huge part of my life. I started my career as a fashion designer in Seoul before moving to London, where I spent over 15 years working across high-street, independent and luxury contemporary fashion. Most recently, I was a Senior Buying & Merchandising Manager at a British contemporary fashion brand.
I’d always wanted to create something of my own, and jewellery was something I had been quietly working on alongside my career. I wanted to create pieces that felt special and distinctive, but were still easy to wear every day. Something you could keep, wear often, and hopefully become a little attached to.
Eventually, I decided to take the risk and make HYE my full-time focus. Since then, it’s been a very hands-on journey. I design the pieces, handpick the materials, and make as much as I can myself in London, while figuring out the rest as I go.
HYE is still a very small business. It’s not a big team or a huge operation behind the scenes. It’s me, my ideas, a lot of hard work, and a dream that I’m still building.
And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Design Process
From initial inspiration to sketches, countless prototypes, and finally, the finished products, we approach the creative process with utmost dedication. Our designs are inspired by the beauty of the natural world and the emotions that jewellery can evoke, from the excitement of a new romance to the nostalgia of a cherished memory. We believe that jewellery should be a reflection of your unique personality, and we strive to create pieces that make you feel confident, beautiful, and empowered.
Materials We Use
After extensive research and testing with various durable metals, we found that stainless steel met our high standards. Unlike many materials commonly used in jewellery, we use 316L stainless steel, a metal renowned for its exceptional durability and recyclability. This hypoallergenic material is resistant to oxidation, rust, scratches, and tarnishing, making it ideal for long-lasting jewellery.
Sustainability
At HYE STUDIO, we believe that creating beautiful jewellery should go hand in hand with making a positive impact. Since launching, we have partnered with Ecologi, an environmental organisation supporting reforestation and climate action. For every order placed with us, we have contributed towards planting a tree, and over 1,200 trees have been planted across the world — a simple way for our community to help support the planet with every purchase.
Growing Our Impact
As HYE STUDIO grows, so does our commitment to giving back. Going forward, rather than focusing on just one cause, we will donate a portion of our sales to charities and causes that matter to our community and us. From environmental projects to charities supporting people, communities, and other important causes, we want our giving to have a wider and more meaningful impact.
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