From royal gifts to bespoke objets d’art, Singapore’s Royal Insignia is reviving the art of gifting

Modern conveniences have made it easy to send a gift at a moment’s notice. Be it flowers, artisanal chocolates or fine fragrances, few items remain outside the purview of online shopping and quick delivery. Convenience, however, can come at the cost of emotional depth, especially when it comes to procuring a gift for the people who matter most.

After all, don’t your loved ones deserve the finest and most thoughtful gifts? And what better way to show your appreciation than with a bespoke piece of art or jewellery, painstakingly handcrafted by master craftsmen?

That’s the suggestion put forth by Singapore-based atelier Royal Insignia. A brand favoured by royalty—the atelier has designed bespoke medals and ornaments for the royal courts of Johor, Brunei and Bhutan—Royal Insignia possesses more than two decades worth of expertise in delivering dazzling objets d’art made from precious metals and gemstones. Take a look at its extensive portfolio and there’s no denying the exceptional skill and artistry on display.

Among its repertoire is an artful clock, commissioned by the sultan of Johor as a gift for the king of Bahrain. Inspired by the architectural splendour of Johor’s Istana Besar, the intricate clock resembles the facade of the royal building, sporting the same tiling patterns and windows. Adding to its complexity are the hand-carved and delicate geometric patterns that imbue the piece with an indubitable Middle Eastern flair. Besides the royal courts and families, the atelier also works with luxury brands to create the most exquisite gifts for its clients.

Case in point: a stunning, bespoke and bejewelled chess set designed in collaboration with watchmaking house Audemars Piguet. Strikingly elegant, each piece—gilded in white or yellow gold—is adorned with precious jewels, such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds and black onyx.

Tailored For Joy

While nothing can beat the expediency of readymade accoutrements and gifts, Royal Insignia’s bespoke approach ensures every piece is crafted with the full emotional depth a heartfelt gift ought to convey. Upon commissioning a piece, be it fine jewellery or a hand-engraved piece of art made from precious metals, the team at Royal Insignia spends a considerable amount of time understanding the story and emotional weight behind your request.

Once every detail has been noted, the atelier begins a meticulous research and design process to ensure the final piece expresses the message. Only after you’re satisfied with the preliminary sketches can the crafting process begin. Throughout this entire process, you’ll be able to reach the team at any time should you wish to make any modifications or simply for peace of mind. If the approach sounds exhaustive, that’s because it is meant to be.

A precious gift imbued with meaning requires fastidious care and a nuanced approach. Royal Insignia shares this philosophy. Aside from crafting stunning bespoke pieces, the atelier offers restoration services to revitalise family heirlooms or artefacts made from gold, silver, brass, precious stones and enamel. Before reaching the tables of its master craftsmen, every piece will undergo detailed analysis and documentation to ensure customers are fully informed on the process and risks.

Whether you’re intending to restore a family keepsake to its former glory or seeking a lighter touch that retains an artefact’s centuries-old patina, the team at Royal Insignia will guide you every step of the way. Now led by designer and second-generation owner Charlotte Hoe, it appears Royal Insignia is poised to cultivate a new appreciation for the art of gifting. Whether it’s new and bespoke objets d’art or meticulously restored keepsakes, the atelier promises the most evocative gifts that will stand the test of time.

This story first appeared in the December 2024 issue. Purchase it as a print or digital copy, or consider subscribing to us here