Some collaborations are carefully planned. Others happen more naturally, in the middle of a conversation between friends. That was how “Candy Pop” began—during a casual catch-up between Niña Cuenca, head of design at Atelier 818 Fine Jewelry, and Patricia Diane Ang, chief executive officer of Atelier Patty Ang. In an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, the two ladies shared how the customizable “Candy Pop” collection came about.

“I met Patty about 10 years ago through a styling shoot,” Niña shares. “We’ve worked together in different roles over the years. She’s warm, sharp, and one of the designers I creatively get right away.”

Patricia adds, “Niña’s curiosity is what draws me. Her jewelry is refined and intelligent, but never afraid to experiment. I saw immediately how our aesthetics could complement each other—clean, classic lines with a contemporary, precise edge.”

The collection grew spontaneously. Niña recalls, “Everything from the colors to the font style felt playful and instinctive. When we finished, the pieces looked like candy—too cute not to name it ‘Candy Pop.’” Patricia points out, “The shapes, colors, and details felt bright, fun, and almost addictive. ‘Candy Pop’ captured the mood perfectly.”

The result is a collection that is both polished and whimsical. Atelier 818 brings refinement and precision, while Atelier Patty Ang adds a signature mix of classic sophistication and playful edge. Together, they create pieces that feel luxurious yet approachable.

The design journey was a breeze for both parties. Initial sketches and ideas were exchanged digitally between ateliers, then refined in person. “When we do get to meet in person, we talk through everything more and refine the ideas together. Overall, the process feels very natural and fun because our conversations just flow easily,” shares Patricia.

Enameling was a first for the jewelry brand. “It’s a technical process. Once the setting is done, a colored enamel is painted onto the gold surface and baked at a very high heat to fuse it permanently. What’s nice about enamel is that the color never fades. We had expert artisans who helped us perfect the process,” Niña explains. “We added customization so clients could choose colors, birthstones, or lucky charms. It makes the experience playful and personal.”

“Candy Pop” lets wearers create their own “candies,” choosing soft pastels, glossy brights, and curated shades that match one’s mood and personality. “The pieces are meant to lift your mood,” Niña says. “Picking a color feels less like choosing jewelry and more like choosing a mood.”

Patricia chimes in, showing the endless combinations you can have made with earrings, rings, and even charms you can wear as pendants and bracelets. “It also lets you express your personality, since you can pick the color you want, choose your birthstone, or even go for your lucky colors. It’s giving you the freedom to create something that feels a little more personal while still keeping that joyful, candy-like energy.”

Production starts from the day the design is finalized, with a lead time of four weeks. The result is designs that are worth the wait, knowing that each of them is customized to the wearer’s vision and preference.

Both designers are open to future collaborations. “We’re ready for whatever inspiration brings,” Niña shares. For Patricia, this partnership feels like the beginning of something more. “This is just the start of more playful projects together.”