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A luster in full circle

Published Jun 24, 2026 5:00 am Add PhilSTAR Life on Google

Wearable art has long been etched into fashion history. In the Philippines, Hoseki Jewelry Art has carved its own place in the industry with jewelry that transcends adornment to become wearable works of art. In a fitting coincidence, the company known for its pearls and artisanal creations is celebrating its Pearl Jubilee, marking 30 years in fashion and business.

Under the creative leadership of founder and internationally acclaimed jewelry designer Fai Co, together with chief creative officer Knoi Austria Esmane, Hoseki has grown into one of the country’s most distinguished jewelry houses, earning more than 30 international design awards and widespread recognition for excellence in fine jewelry.

Faico “Moonlit Harvest,” 13 x 16.5 x 10.5 south sea pearls, wood, brass, cubic zirconia and resin 

What began as Fai Co’s passion project evolved into a lifelong journey fueled by a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and beauty. At the heart of his work has always been the pearl, the Philippines’ national gem and a symbol of resilience. In a world where trends constantly change, Hoseki’s legacy is not merely a measure of longevity but a testament to endurance, growth, and the ability to remain inspired while staying true to its identity.

Jeann Fadul “Dreamers of the Deep,” resin acrylic and baroque pearls, 2026 

Drawing a parallel between the pearl’s journey and his own, Fai Co shares: “They are shaped by time, patience and nature’s quiet magic. In many ways, their journey reflects our own—formed through years of dedication, learning, perseverance and growth.”

Hoseki pearls are shaped by time, patience, and nature’s own quiet magic.

Returning to its artistic roots, Hoseki presents “The Allure of Pearls,” a special exhibition in partnership with Art Lounge Manila that celebrates exceptional craftsmanship, artistic innovation, and Filipino creativity. The exhibition brings together art and jewelry in a meaningful dialogue between tradition and innovation, with each work reflecting the imagination, skill and evolving vision that transform a classic gem into a source of contemporary expression.

Anna DeLeon “Precious Moment I” 16 diameter acrylic on fiber glass, 2026

The exhibition features an exceptional roster of Filipino artists, including Flor Baradi, Frank Caña, Denzel Royce Chang, Buds Convocar, Rum Corvera, Percival Cruz, Katrina Cuenca, Jonathan Dangue, Joe Datuin, Anna de Leon, Lee Dequito, Rouel Dionisio, Knoi Esmane, Jeann Fadul, Fai Co, Jojo Fadul, Ricky Francisco, Caloy Gabuco, Carlo Magno, Noli Manalang, Bertrand Ng, Julieanne Ng, Cindy Ng Sy, Roel Obemio, Anna Orlina, Ramon Orlina, Lydia Velasco and Migs Villanueva.

“After Girl w Pearl Earring,” 15.75 diameter acrylic on canvas, 2026

Through diverse interpretations and artistic expressions, the participating artists explore themes of beauty, resilience, transformation, and timelessness—the very qualities that have defined Hoseki over the past three decades. Many of the works take the form of paintings on spherical canvases or sculptural spheres inspired by the pearl itself. At the heart of the exhibition is celebrated artist Roel Obemio’s tribute to Johannes Vermeer’s iconic Girl with a Pearl Earring, rendered in his signature voluminous figurative style.

Migs Villanueva “Treasure I,” 15.75 diameter acrylic on canvas, 2026 

Beyond celebrating artistry across disciplines, The Allure of Pearls also pays homage to the Philippines as the “Pearl of the Orient Seas,” a title immortalized by Dr. José Rizal in Mi Último Adiós. Like the pearl, the nation embodies beauty shaped by perseverance, strength and hope. The exhibition not only highlights diverse artistic voices but also shines a light on the enduring spirit of Filipino creativity that continues to inspire across generations.

Katrina Cuenca “Opulence in Motion” 8 diameter mixed media on fiber glass, 2026 

What’s next for Hoseki? Esmane, partner and chief creative officer of Hoseki Inc., shares an optimistic vision for the future: “The next chapter will be defined by new voices, exciting collaborations and creative possibilities, while remaining deeply committed to creating pieces that inspire, endure and celebrate beauty in all its forms.”

Carlo Magno “Mother of Pearl” 15.75 diameter acrylic and leather on canvas, 2026

Faico “Imperial Harvest,” 16.5 x 16.5 x 4.5, south Sea Pearls, aluminum alloy, mother of pearl

Jonathan Dangue “Crimson Pearl,” 12 x 17 x 15 red acrylic paint on rose gold hollow ball resin and varnished brass, 2026

Knoi Esmane “Ode to the Moon II,” 6 x 24 x 5 acrylic, millefiori enamel south sea pearl and resin, 2026

Percival Cruz “Pearls on the Wind,” 15.75 diameter mixed media on canvas, 2026

Ricky Francisco “Pearlescent Memories II,” 15.75 diameter mixed media on canvas, 2026

Carlo Magno “Mother of Pearl” 15.75 diameter acrylic and leather on canvas, 2026

Faico “Imperial Harvest,” 16.5 x 16.5 x 4.5, south Sea Pearls, aluminum alloy, mother of pearl

Jonathan Dangue “Crimson Pearl,” 12 x 17 x 15 red acrylic paint on rose gold hollow ball resin and varnished brass, 2026

Knoi Esmane “Ode to the Moon II,” 6 x 24 x 5 acrylic, millefiori enamel south sea pearl and resin, 2026

Percival Cruz “Pearls on the Wind,” 15.75 diameter mixed media on canvas, 2026

Ricky Francisco “Pearlescent Memories II,” 15.75 diameter mixed media on canvas, 2026

CLOSE

Esmane was introduced as a first-time exhibiting artist in “The Allure of Pearls,” and his three sculptural works were immediately acquired at the exhibition’s opening—an encouraging sign for the creative chapters that lie ahead.

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“The Allure of Pearls” is presented by Art Lounge Manila in partnership with Hoseki Jewelry Art and will be on view until June 30, 2026. Art Lounge Manila is located on the Ground Floor of The Podium, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. For more information on Hoseki Jewelry Art, follow @hosekijewelryart on Facebook and Instagram. For details on Art Lounge Manila, visit www.artloungemanila.com or follow  @artloungemanila on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.