Kristine Dee and Emmeline Aglipay Villar unveil the 'Cross for Hope' necklace
This special necklace aims to support the initiatives of Hope for Lupus Foundation
By John Legaspi
Launching a new collection for designers means presenting their latest vision. This creative expression is often a nod to their journey, the special people in their lives, or an overall celebration of their passion for the craft. But for some creatives, their collection speaks more of the causes that are dear to their hearts—using their designs to put the spotlight on initiatives and stories that people, even beyond the fashion circle, must know and support. A testament to that is jewelry designer Kristine Dee’s latest releases.

This month, Kristine unveiled her latest pieces of fine jewelry that center on the beauty of asymmetry. While the pieces of her latest collection are truly stunning, what stands out the most is her “Cross for Hope” necklace due to the story behind it.

The “Cross for Hope” necklace is a piece Kristine designed in collaboration with Emmeline Aglipay Villar. The launch of the necklace supports Emmeline’s foundation, Hope for Lupus, which now has 7,400 members nationwide.
“Hope for Lupus Foundation has helped thousands of lupus patients and their families through medical and financial assistance, and wellness and livelihood projects,” Emmeline says. “We are also conducting continuous information and education activities to increase awareness about lupus and its symptoms, for early detection of those who are undiagnosed and for prevention.”

Classic and crafted with love, the “Cross for Hope” necklace is made of pink mother of pearl adorned with freshwater pearls and diamonds set in 14K gold. Its price starts at P23,500 with 100 percent of its sales will go to the foundation to support its initiatives.
“It symbolizes faith,” Kristine says about the design. “Faith is one thing we need as we put our trust and confidence in Him for the greater good.”
“Our lupus warriors have been through so many trials and struggles,” Emmeline adds. “It is our faith that has given us hope and has kept us strong in spirit and fighting through all these challenges. The ‘Cross of Hope’ is a reminder that our hope is in the Lord and our strength comes from Him.”

Apart from the “Cross of Hope,” Kristine Dee’s latest collection also highlights the beauty of astrology. Dubbed “Enchanted Book of Zodiacs,” the line invites everyone to celebrate individuality and share their story through custom engraving. Each book pendant comes in stones of pink or black mother of pearl, malachite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise.
To know more about Kristine Dee’s latest pieces, visit @krisitnedeejewellery on Instagram.
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