A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
Handmade Jewelry Brand 'Marie & J'
Michelle Min, CEO and Head Designer
The transformation of women is faultless, perhaps because the desire to pursue beauty is always understood. There are many items that assist women in expressing beauty. Sometimes, despite having fashion items like clothes, hairstyles, and bags, something still feels missing. Could there be anything as satisfying as jewelry to fill a woman's desire for beauty? When one wears jewelry such as necklaces, rings, and earrings, sparkling with one's unique color and shine, a bright smile surfaces. Jewelry brilliantly completes a woman's beauty. At the helm of her own brand, 'Marie & J', in New York's Upper West Side and New Jersey's Englewood, Michelle Min lives and breathes beauty—not just as a jewelry designer but also as a woman. Here is her "bright and beautiful" story.
Interview and Photos by Editor-in-Chief Soojeong Lee
Mom & I: Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
Michelle Min: Hello, nice to meet you. My name is Michelle Min, and my Korean name is Min Jeong. I was born in Seoul and moved to the U.S. in 2010 after getting married. I currently reside in Manhattan.
Mom & I: You have a stunning appearance that suggests expertise in design or arts. Is your current work related to jewelry design?
Michelle Min: You're too kind! (laughs) I studied jewelry design during both my undergraduate and postgraduate studies. I've loved pretty accessories since I was young.
Mom & I: What led you to choose the path of a jewelry designer?
Michelle Min: I have a direct ancestor connection to Empress Myeongseong of the Joseon Dynasty. While preparing for university, my interest naturally shifted to late Joseon history. Historical records and traditional ornaments inspired me to re-interpret these designs with modern sensibility. Consequently, I chose to major in jewelry design.
Michelle Min also designed a special birthstone necklace for actress Han Go-eun, incorporating her birthstone, aquamarine, on the drama ‘More Beautiful Than a Flower’.
Michelle Min
A jewelry designer with a master's degree in accessory design from Korea. Her heritage and interest in late Joseon history inspired her work. Known for her designs featured on Korean dramas such as ‘Beethoven Virus’ and 'Boys Over Flowers,' she has collaborated with top Korean stars like Kim Tae-hee, Kim Hye-soo, and Han Go-eun. She currently operates her brand ‘Marie & J’ at studios in Manhattan and New Jersey.
Mom & I: Can you share your experiences related to jewelry design?
Michelle Min: I've done various projects. Notably, I worked on popular Korean dramas like 'Beethoven Virus,' where the ring worn by Kim Myung-min was designed by me. In 'More Beautiful Than a Flower,' actress Han Go-eun wore a necklace I crafted, featuring her birthstone. Working with renowned actors like Kim Hye-soo and Kim Tae-hee has been rewarding.
Mom & I: What do you enjoy most about your work?
Michelle Min: As a designer, creating and wearing my creations offers immense satisfaction. The joy of crafting one-of-a-kind jewels is unparalleled. Pursuing beauty while working in this field is a rewarding journey.
Mom & I: What aspect of jewelry design is most important to you?
Michelle Min: I want to redefine jewelry as a powerful symbol of women's beauty rather than mere fashion accessories. My aim is to create jewelry that brings joy and can be freely worn in everyday life.
Michelle Min’s vision for Marie & J jewelry is for it to be a cherished part of daily life, embodying happiness and healing.
Mom & I: With your family, how do you manage work and household responsibilities?
Michelle Min: Raising my seven-year-old daughter and four-year-old son is challenging, yet seeing their pride in my work as a designer is fulfilling. Showing them new designs and watching their reactions is both enjoyable and enlightening.
Mom & I: What are your future plans?
Michelle Min: I plan to raise my children beautifully! Professionally, I aim to expand globally, leveraging my past experiences in Korea. My goal is to have my brand in prestigious U.S. department stores. This requires further study and dedication.
Marie & J / Marie Studio
New Jersey Studio / 9N Dean St. Englewood NJ 07631
New York Studio / 215 West 83rd St. NY 10024
