“Of all the word combinations you would never imagine hearing, “breastmilk jewellery” is probably one of them.”
32-year-old Andrew Lim, the founder of local keepsake jewellery brand Apart.sg, has embarked on a unique endeavor – crafting jewellery from breastmilk for new mothers. What was originally a brand specializing in end-of-life jewellery made from ashes took a turn when Andrew decided to venture into the world of breastmilk-infused keepsakes. In a sit-down interview, Andrew shared the thoughtful process behind his decision to provide this service, stating, “Mothers deserve better.”
“When I first heard about breastmilk jewellery, it took me a long time to wrap my head around it. Maybe it’s because I am a guy, and I’m not a parent…And I am someone who wouldn’t sell something I didn’t believe in.” Andrew’s initial hesitations and subsequent immersion into the world of breastfeeding jewellery shed light on the importance of offering a superior product in a market where resin-based jewellery is the standard. “That’s when I realised that this market deserves better. The service of this line can be a lot better,” he said, reflecting on his journey.
Jewellery isn’t just about adornment for Andrew; it’s about encapsulating a fleeting moment, a unique and special phase of mothers’ lives. “Jewellery is something tangible that mothers can physically hold on to for the rest of their lives, immortalizing the intimate journey,” he shared. For some mothers, the jewellery serves as a cherished trophy, symbolizing their resilience in the face of breastfeeding challenges. “These mothers see the jewellery as a trophy,” said Andrew, highlighting the diverse significance of breastmilk jewellery.
Andrew understands the potential reservations some may have in trusting a male artisan with their breastmilk, and thus ensures that he goes above and beyond to foster trust and transparency in his process. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to customer satisfaction, his brand Apart.sg has gained a sterling 5-star review on Google, solidifying its reputation as a trusted provider of memorial jewellery.
The journey towards crafting breastmilk jewellery was no easy feat for Andrew. It involved six months of extensive research and development to perfect the process. The meticulous approach he took reflects his dedication to providing a superior product that truly encapsulates the essence of motherhood. The intricate process, involving heating the milk, adding preservatives, solidifying and infusing it into the jewellery, underscores the care and precision applied to each piece.
Looking ahead, Andrew expresses his resounding commitment to continuing this line of business, emphasizing that he isn’t just selling jewellery; he’s selling the idea of immortalizing a moment in time. As families become smaller and the moments of motherhood become increasingly fleeting, Andrew’s exquisite breastmilk jewellery serves as a testament to the enduring value of these precious moments.
