Jewelry for the corporate career woman

MANILA, Philippines - In many ways, Jacqueline “Jackie” Ampil’s lifestyle represents the constant aspiration of many Filipina women today  one that truly balances a productive and dynamic career, a healthy and nurturing family life, as well as a fulfilling pursuit of personal interests, hobbies and passions.

However, Jackie is the first to admit that her life is far from perfect. “I just take it one day at a time, never sweating the small stuff and keeping focus on what really matters,” she smiles. Her colleagues and friends would certainly ascribe her effervescent personality and positive disposition as the key to her success.

Perhaps the most defining role she plays today is that of a mother to two teenage daughters. “On one hand, you want to encourage them to take advantage of all that life has to offer today,” says Jackie, referring to modern technology, social networking, and lots of opportunities for personal growth like travel and studying abroad. “On the other hand, your instinct to take care of them and to protect them will always be there. It’s definitely a difficult balancing act, to allow them to grow but at the same time not stifle them,” she explains. As with countless other moms and daughters, this balance is the topic of contention covering everything from studying habits and boys, to shopping and choosing clothes.

Regarding the latter, Jackie has a distinct personal style that has worked to her advantage as a corporate career woman. Not surprisingly, this lady with a tall, elegant bearing prefers classic, understated styles that are versatile. She adds a contemporary twist to her fashion not so much in terms of design, but in the way she puts together accessories and pieces. Jackie clarifies that she is not a fine jewelry addict, but she does have the right appreciation for such accessories. “I prefer simple but classic pieces, which I can of course pass on to my daughters when the time comes,” she says. She feels that jewelry is not only a form of personal expression, but an interest that can be used to bring daughters closer to their mothers. “Taking care of something precious also somehow teaches young adults about responsibility and commitment,” muses Jackie. “More than taking care of its material worth, it’s valuing the relationship with the person who gifted you with such keepsakes, and the memories behind them.”

Jackie recalls how she lent her 18-year-old daughter Monique a personal pair of dainty but precious pearl earrings and a tennis bracelet for her prom.

Sterling-silver jewelry is also a ready alternative in Jackie’s simple but complete style arsenal. “Silver jewelry is good for everyday wear in the office,” she says. “It is still considered fine jewelry, but it is easier to style, easier to pull off, and somehow relaxed but still elegant and very polished.” She also agrees that silver jewelry is a perfect way to start off young girls on appreciating precious accessories. “It’s not as expensive, but still as precious and pretty. It also won’t break the bank just in case it gets lost or misplaced, knowing how active and busy young people can be,” she says.

With Jackie’s discerning taste and distinct personal style, the type of silver jewelry that appeals to her are those that are of the highest quality, and with truly unique, handcrafted designs. She loves classic bangles, earrings and rings in solid sterling silver. Silver jewelry that utilizes precious stones and materials — similar to those done with traditional gold or platinum metals — are also good finds.

Jewelry enthusiasts and connoisseurs know that there are homegrown brands like Michelis, which has been a purveyor of such fine jewelry styles rendered in genuine sterling silver. Michelis’ distinctive style combines pearls, colored stones, and other natural materials in the same tradition as fine jewelry in gold. As such, they are the perfect items to cherish not just as personal style statements, but as gifts and heirlooms for loved ones.

What sets Michelis apart is its unwavering commitment to only the highest standards of quality. Michelis boasts genuine sterling silver quality and 92.5 silver content, in line with international fine jewelry standards. Most importantly, all Michelis jewelry is proudly Filipino designed and crafted — a truly world-class choice for sterling-silver accessories.

The latest Michelis jewelry collections and accessories are available at its boutiques in Greenbelt 5, SM Megmall Atrium, Rustan’s Alabang Town Center, Robinsons Place Manila, Rustan’s Tower Shangri-La Plaza Mall, and Robinsons Magnolia. Also check out and like Michelis’ official Facebook page on facebook.com/MichelisJewellery, and for more information and updates on Michelis, follow its official Twitter account on twitter.com/MichelisSilver.