Jewellery is made of recyclable materials.
Although she is a molecular biologist by profession, during one part of her life she was in charge of the organization of birthday parties and stage and costume design in a children’s theatre, and today she is a jewellery designer. Ivana Petrović is the owner of the zena.dyete brand and makes her jewellery with recyclable materials, such as leather, metal and thread, reports tportal.hr on October 16, 2016.
“The idea was born from the desire to always wear something unique. I used to produce jewellery with beads and chains, but I never had anything unique. Three years ago I made a necklace and realized that it was something I wanted to do in my life. I worked through the summer to have everything ready for autumn”, explains Ivana.
After she quit her job and completely dedicated herself to jewellery, Ivana went to the United States where she literally sold on the street to passers-by all 30-odd necklaces which she carried with her. She also established contacts with some world-renowned designers and musicians. Today her necklaces are worn by American bloggers, artists and stylists.
“I use both imported and local materials, and I work together with a Croatian thread factory. Over time, I began ordering supplies via the internet from Italy and South Africa. I find inspiration in nature and architectural wonders, especially old cast iron fences, but also in animals. Also, my biggest inspiration is music which is woven into all my necklaces”, says Ivana.
The jewellery is bought equally by men and women who want to have a unique piece of jewellery. Prices range from 300 kuna upwards, depending on the length and model of the necklace, and they can be ordered through the official website and Etsy Shop.
Although most people who start their own business complain about bureaucracy, Ivana says that the biggest problem is in their heads. “The biggest problem with starting your own business in Croatia is the mentality. If you value your work, other people will value it as well, but if you are going to sell it cheaply, then nobody will be satisfied. The biggest problem is for people to start working, because everybody is afraid of failure. People are afraid what will others around them think if they fail”, concludes Ivana.
