Graedance, a Melbourne-based demi-fine jewellery label, is redefining the jewellery industry with its unique approach. The founder, Rong Chen, emphasizes creating pieces that adapt to the wearer’s changing body and mood.
Rong Chen launched Graedance in September 2022 after accumulating years of experience in the fashion industry. His journey includes founding a womenswear line, co-directing a menswear brand, and starting a community-based project. He combined these experiences to create a collection of handcrafted, adaptive, genderless jewellery.
From Fashion to Jewellery
Rong’s background in fashion is diverse. Coming from an immigrant, Chinese, lower-income family, his initial foray into fashion was driven by ambition rather than experience. He founded the womenswear brand Jonathan Liang, which grew in Asia and was stocked by major department stores like Lane Crawford. His first design commission was for Uniqlo, which ignited his passion for design.
Later, Rong co-directed Amxander, a menswear brand focusing on reworking uniforms with contemporary streetwear sensibilities. His work earned nominations for the Woolmark Prize and the National Designer Award. He also initiated H-ours Project, highlighting Asian creative experiences in Australia. This project helped bridge the gap between creative spaces and Asian communities.
The Birth of Graedance
The idea for Graedance came during the pandemic. Rong reflected on his creative practice and found inspiration in a pair of dolphin earrings he bought for his mother with his first paycheck. This sentimental value led him to view jewellery as a medium for storytelling. He studied metalwork, learned 3D modeling, and planned meticulously to launch Graedance.
Vision and Evolution
Graedance aims to be a vessel for its wearers’ memories, encouraging self-expression and confidence. The brand name combines “grey,” symbolizing various shades and emotions, with “dance,” representing movement and evolution. The jewellery pieces are sculptural and adaptable, made from high-quality materials like 93% silver, which allows for unique customization.
Proud Moments and Inspirations
Rong is proud of the interviews with Graedance’s clients, referred to as “dancers.” These interviews, featuring chefs, musicians, and other creatives, showcase diverse stories and highlight the power of diversity. A particularly moving video featured two trans-masc individuals sharing their journey and love, deeply inspiring Rong.
Lessons and Aspirations
Rong has no regrets about his journey, viewing mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow. His dream collaborators include Chinatown Country Club, which he admires for its strong community sense and exciting brand assortment.
Personal Style and Shopping Graedance
Rong’s wardrobe includes international designers like Y-Project, Acne Studios, Diesel, and Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as Australian designers Song for the Mute and Ffixxed Studios. He also discovered local brands in Saigon and Seoul, such as Hades, Lider, and 51 Percent.
Graedance pieces can be purchased through their website, with free shipping Australia-wide. Select styles are also available at Chinatown Country Club in Eora.
Graedance continues to evolve, creating jewellery that tells stories and adapts to the wearer’s journey, embodying the essence of future memories.