KHIRY FINE: the people and initiatives behind this groundbreaking collection
The Betts Group is supporting Jameel Mohammed as he launches his first fine jewellery collection through NET-A-PORTER’s Vanguard Programme. Mohammed’s new collection, KHIRY FINE, uses 18k responsibly sourced Single Mine Origin gold supplied by The Betts Group. Pieces from the collection were recently featured on the cover of TIME, worn by inaugural poet Amanda Gorman. Read on to find out more about the people and initiatives behind this exciting story…
KHIRY - a unique luxury jewellery brand
KHIRY was launched from Jameel Mohammed’s University of Pennsylvania dorm room in 2016, after he was told by a CEO that true luxury brands only came from Paris and Milan. Mohammed’s aim with KHIRY is to create a new vision by channelling the art and culture of the African diaspora into modern, luxurious jewellery. KHIRY designs honour African heritage; they are named for cities and historically significant figures, using sleek silhouettes. Described by its creator as Afrofuturist, KHIRY already counts the likes of Serena Williams and Cardi B amongst its famous fans. It is particularly exciting that the brand’s new collection, KHIRY FINE, will be made using responsibly sourced gold from Africa. You can find out more about the KHIRY brand.
Amanda Gorman - a beacon of hope
Poet and activist Amanda Gorman was named the first National Youth Poet Laureate in 2017. Her inspiring performance of ‘The Hill We Climb’ at Joe Biden’s inauguration in January brought her international acclaim. Gorman has since become the first poet to perform at the Super Bowl and has also been named on TIME100 Next 2021 list of future leaders. In a recent interview with Michelle Obama, Gorman discussed the current renaissance in Black art. Like Mohammed, Gorman is a young Black creator whose work celebrates African-American history. Sharing the TIME cover on Instagram, Mohammed said that he was ‘beyond moved’ to see Gorman in KHIRY.
NET-A-PORTER's The Vanguard - supporting emerging talent
NET-A-PORTER’s Vanguard mentorship program was first announced in September 2018 – it aims to highlight lesser-known design labels with great potential. KHIRY FINE is the latest jewellery brand to join the prestigious program and is now featured on NET-A-PORTER’s website. The Vanguard supports talented emerging designers to use top-quality materials such as Single Mine Origin gold.
Single Mine Origin Gold - a responsible choice
Sourced from the Yanfolila mine in Mali, Single Mine Origin gold is fully traceable via batch and QR codes. These show customers the impact of each purchase through community and environmental projects, giving them confidence in their responsible choice. Working in partnership with Hummingbird Resources, The Betts Group controls the entire process from production to delivery. This ensures that CSR guidelines and the World Gold Council’s Responsible Gold Mining Principles are adhered to. Find out more about using Single Mine Origin gold.
The Betts Group is keen to nurture talent in the industry, not only through schemes such as the Vanguard, but also by funding structured training for its employees. Learn more about The Betts Group.
Image courtesy of NET-A-PORTER.
