I. Fire, Wax and Transformation
In many ancient cultures, fire was considered a divine privilege, and its use by humans was explained through foundation myths. In Greek mythology, Prometheus gave fire to humanity, making craft, technology, and material transformation possible.
Lost-wax casting is one of the oldest techniques used in jewellery making, and it contains this same tension. Like a candle, the wax melts in a singular moment of fire, and that exact moment shapes the metal. The wax disappears, but its surface and marks remain.
We choose not to perfect or erase every molten trace. For us, the way fire and time leave their marks on the final form — almost like an archaeological ruin or a relic shaped by earth and time — has become one of our central design principles.
II. Archive Studies and Making
We study artefacts, symbols, poetry, etymology, mythology, philosophy, psychology, and natural formations. We are interested in the forms and ideas that have resisted erasure.
Each ASSUWA object begins through this process of excavation: a forgotten deity, a damaged verse, an ancient coin, a psychological archetype, or a formation found in nature. These references are translated into anti-didactic, talismanic objects through drawing, wax, metal, stone, and the knowledge of the hands that shape them.
The excavated object is open to interpretation: a personal talisman whose meaning is completed by the person who wears it..
III. Istanbul and the Continuity of Making
Our hometown, Istanbul, is a city built in layers — Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and others before and between them — with each civilisation building over what came before. This has always been our inspiration point.
For centuries, Istanbul stood at the centre of trade routes connecting Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean. This also placed it at the centre of making, where materials, techniques, and craftspeople converged. The Grand Bazaar is one surviving fragment of that system: a network of ateliers where material knowledge continues to pass from hand to hand, often within families.
Our jewellery is handcrafted in small batches with artisans and family-run ateliers in Istanbul, including workshops within the historic Grand Bazaar.
Every piece passes through human hands. We choose techniques according to the needs of each object. Many pieces are formed through lost-wax casting. With our ancient coin pendants, however, we preserve the original texture and character of the coin as closely as possible.
We produce according to demand rather than volume. Small-batch production allows us to avoid unnecessary excess, inspect each object carefully, and maintain a close relationship with our makers.
IV. Recycled Silver, Gold Plating and Bronze
We work primarily with recycled 925 sterling silver. Silver can be melted, reshaped, worn, repaired, and returned without losing its material value.
Our gold-plated jewellery is made in sterling silver and finished with a substantial layer of 18kt gold micron plating to support lasting colour and polish.
Selected sculptural pieces are made in bronze, a material used across Mediterranean civilisations for thousands of years and chosen for its strength and lighter weight.
Metal remembers through form. It records touch, time, and use.
V. Handpicked and Responsibly Sourced Gemstones
Gemstones are records of geological time, formed through pressure, heat, and transformation within the earth. In this sense, each stone is a fragment of the earth’s own memory.
Their natural inclusions and tonal differences form part of their character. Rather than using lab-grown stones, we choose conflict-free semi-precious gemstones, handpicked for their natural colour, form, symbolism, and relationship to each design.
VI. Packaging, Meaning and Gifting
Our packaging is designed to protect each piece while using recyclable and responsibly sourced materials wherever possible. Our jewellery and postal boxes use FSC®-certified paper materials sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Each piece is accompanied by a card explaining its origin, meaning, and symbolism.
We believe that a symbol does not carry one fixed meaning. It changes through memory, ritual, association, and the life of the person who wears it.
Each object begins with a story. What it becomes afterwards belongs to you.
VII. Jewellery Designed to Last
Our pieces are designed to remain in use for years rather than be replaced.
We use durable metals, substantial plating, protective finishes, and considered construction. Through our lifetime repair and repolishing service, pieces can return to use when their surfaces change or maintenance is required.
Repair is a continuation of making. Keep what holds meaning.
Please contact us to repair or repolish your jewellery, or to reimagine an existing piece through our jewellery recycling programme.
