About Kê Lì
Welcome to my world of jewellery making, opal and gemstone enchantment! I am the creator, Kê Lì, pronounced "Kha-Lee", kind of like Khalessi (Mother of Dragons from Game of Thrones) except without the 'si' on the end. To be honest, only my mum and our relatives in Malaysia call me Kê Lì, otherwise, I am known as Sabrina or "Sabbie", as the Aussies like to call me.
When I was 2 years old my family migrated to Canada. This is where my parents continue to reside today. When I was 19, I came to "backpack" Australia. 18 years later, here I am, still living my best dream life in the paradise known as Byron Bay. However, now with a few additions to my pack, such as a 5 year old son, a 14 year old cat and a very loving and supportive English (muffin) partner. We are a very multicultural household to say the least. In fact, I chose to call my brand Kê Lì, because growing up and living in two Western Countries, I have always felt a bit reserved about my Asian background and culture. Now I can say that with age, comes a sense of confidence and security within my own skin, hence a desire to pay tribute to my heritage by naming my small business Kê Lì.
I'm a part-time Mental Health Social Worker who has discovered a love in the art of crafting opal gemstone jewellery. For all my years in Australia, surfing has always been my main passion, and a fundamental reason for never returning to Canada when I was only meant to 'backpack' for only 3 months! I feel so fortunate to be able to call Byron Bay my home where I live next to the world's best (in my opinion) right-hander point breaks and beaches. However, as of late, surfing taken its first backseat ride in my life as opals and jewellery making have stole the show and ignited a phenomena of what they call 'opal fever'.
Whilst I am in the deep end of this opal fever, I have yet to let go of my love for surfing. The surf culture still lingers in the depths of my heart. Though it may have taken a temporary sideline, the waves and the sea will always hold a special place in my heart. You will see a lot of ocean and nature inspired themes in my jewellery.
Welcome to Bejewelled by Kê Lì.
That was just a brief story into my personal life and background. If you would like to learn more about the specifics of my jewellery making techniques and materials, please go to the FAQ page under the Info tab. If you would like to see more of the jaw-dropping jewels, some funny reels and beautiful pictures, please go to my Instagram page @kelijewellery).
xoxo Kê Lì