Interview with Wang Jiayi & Chen Xiaolan: The Creative Vision Behind Mawa Lab

Interview with Mawa Lab Designers | Timeless Luxury and Craftsmanship

Debris (D): Wang Jiayi and Chen Xiaolan, thank you so much for joining us today. Mawa Lab has quickly garnered attention for its innovative and luxurious approach to jewelry design. Can you share a bit about your personal journey and how Mawa Lab came to be?

Wang Jiayi (WJ): Thank you for having us! Our journey began when we met at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where we both studied jewelry design. We shared a common vision of creating jewelry that felt timeless yet modern, accessible without sacrificing quality. When we both found ourselves back in China during the global uncertainty of the pandemic, we decided to turn our passion for design into something tangible—Mawa Lab.

Chen Xiaolan (CX): Yes, that period of reflection helped us realize that what we wanted to create was jewelry that women could wear daily, something that felt elegant and refined yet practical and versatile. We wanted to bridge the gap between luxury, exclusivity, and affordability.

D: The name "Mawa Lab" has a modern, innovative ring to it. What inspired the name and what does it represent for your brand?

WJ: The name “Mawa” embodies our creative process—it’s both simple and deeply meaningful. It reflects the balance we seek between tradition and modernity, something timeless yet evolving. The word “Lab” symbolizes our ongoing experiment with materials, textures, and forms, where we constantly push the boundaries of jewelry design while staying true to the craftsmanship that defines luxury.

CX: We wanted a name that was easy to remember but also represented our philosophy: creating pieces that transcend trends. Mawa Lab is about offering luxury jewelry for modern women who appreciate craftsmanship, authenticity, and quality.

D: Mawa Lab’s jewelry is known for its balance of simplicity and elegance. How do you approach design and material selection to ensure that balance?

CX: We start with simplicity as the core principle—creating pieces that are clean, refined, and wearable. We use materials like 925 sterling silver and 14k gold because they’re timeless and versatile. Our designs often incorporate handpicked gemstones, which allow us to add a touch of individuality while maintaining the elegance we aim for.

WJ: The key is restraint. We believe that luxury doesn’t need to be loud—it’s in the subtle details, the quality of the materials, and the craftsmanship. We carefully select materials that enhance the minimalist aesthetic, making sure each piece feels personal yet sophisticated.

D: Your collections have been highly praised for their combination of old-world charm and modern sensibilities. Can you tell us more about your design philosophy, especially when it comes to creating timeless pieces?

WJ: We’re deeply inspired by the beauty of nature and the timeless elegance found in both history and modern life. Our designs aim to evoke a sense of nostalgia but with a modern twist. Whether it’s in the way a pearl is set or how gold reflects light, we strive to create pieces that feel like heirlooms in the making, able to transcend generations.

CX: Exactly, we want our jewelry to be worn every day, to become part of the wearer’s identity, much like a timeless piece passed down through the years. Our goal is to craft jewelry that is as enduring as the women who wear it—resilient, strong, and beautifully unique.

D: The "Timeless Essentials" collection is a standout. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this collection and what makes it so special?

CX: "Timeless Essentials" is all about creating pieces that serve as the foundation of any jewelry collection. These are items that can be mixed and matched, worn daily, and cherished for a lifetime. The inspiration came from our desire to make luxury jewelry more accessible and wearable for modern women. We selected materials that are both luxurious and durable, ensuring each piece has a quiet elegance that works for every occasion.

WJ: We also wanted to make sure these pieces could be personalized in a way. For instance, the "Moon in the Sea" collection uses Baroque pearls, which are all unique, so each piece feels special and one-of-a-kind. It’s all about offering something that has both beauty and meaning.

D: What’s next for Mawa Lab? Are there any upcoming collections or collaborations you’re excited about?

CX: We’re always looking to evolve. Right now, we’re working on a new collection that explores the concept of “modern heirlooms”—pieces that marry traditional aesthetics with a contemporary edge. We’re also looking at some exciting collaborations with female designers and artists that align with our values.

WJ: The future for Mawa Lab is about embracing new ideas, new techniques, and new materials, while staying true to our commitment to craftsmanship and design excellence. We can’t wait to share what’s coming next!

D: Finally, what message would you like to leave with our readers and the Mawa Lab community?

WJ: We want to encourage women to embrace their individuality and to wear jewelry that not only complements their style but also reflects their strength and resilience. Mawa Lab is about creating pieces that women can rely on, pieces that transcend trends and become part of their personal story.

CX: And thank you to everyone who’s supported us so far. We are incredibly grateful for the love and feedback we’ve received, and we’re excited to continue creating jewelry that celebrates the timeless elegance of modern women.

D: Thank you, Wang Jiayi and Chen Xiaolan, for sharing your insights and the journey of Mawa Lab. We look forward to the next chapter in your incredible story!

WJ & CX: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.