Greek philosopher Plato once wrote: “Necessity is the mother of invention.” For Maddy Barber, this timeless adage isn’t just a clever saying—it’s the story of how her life took an unexpected, glittering turn.

“People who start movements never actually plan to. And if you try to, it usually doesn’t happen. It has to come from something real—a genuine desire to fill a gap,” says the former Kiss92 FM presenter and founder of MADLY Gems. What began as a personal search for jewellery that resonated on a deeper level evolved, quite organically, into a thriving business that has now celebrated over a decade of crafting meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces.

We sat down with the 51-year-old entrepreneur to unpack her journey, from broadcasting to bespoke brilliance, and the philosophy behind creating jewellery with soul.

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What inspired your pivot from broadcasting to founding MADLY Gems?

Honestly, the transition sounds more dramatic on paper than it felt in real life. Even while I was working in radio with Virgin in Bangkok in 2005, I was always juggling something on the side. My husband and I ran a home improvement business, then a real estate company, both of which we eventually sold before moving back to Singapore. So, business wasn’t new to me. It was really just a matter of time before I found something that felt personal and purposeful enough to pour my heart into.

As for precious gems and jewellery, what’s not to love? But for me, it wasn’t just about the sparkle—it was the emotional value. I grew up watching my mum, aunts, and even my beloved late mother-in-law treat their jewellery like little time capsules. These weren’t things they wore just to match an outfit—they were keepsakes that are hard-earned, sometimes passed down, always meaningful.

I couldn’t find jewellery that felt truly personal, special, or meaningful; not just in the final piece, but in the journey of creating it. And I knew I couldn’t be the only one who felt that way. We’re creating for people who don’t follow trends just because they’re trends. People who want their jewellery to reflect who they are. Pieces with character, that will one day become part of their legacy.

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Let’s talk about the ring inspired by Charlie the rescue dog. How did that commission affect you and your team creatively and emotionally?

When Charlie’s owner saw a previous commission we did—a ring inspired by a Mame Shiba—she realised jewellery could be more than just beautiful. It could be meaningful. Many of our designers are pawrents too (a term I learned from my Gen Z team members). So, something like this really hits differently. Over the years, we’ve created heirlooms, memorial pieces, birthstones… each one stays with us. Jewellery is more than a keepsake—it’s a vessel for memory.

Talk us through the process of creating a bespoke MADLY piece, from first conversation to final clasp.

It starts from the first moment you reach out. Not with a form or a catalogue, but a conversation. We want to know who you are and what you're celebrating. At our Brand Experience Centre, clients see the journey of a gem, from mine to masterpiece. Many walk in with one idea and leave with something they never expected—one that feels completely, authentically theirs. From start to finish, the experience is designed to be personal, thoughtful, and intentional.

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Why do you think consumers are shifting away from mass-produced sparkle toward emotionally significant, ethically made pieces?

I’ve been waiting for this shift! I never understood the appeal of paying top dollar for something mass-produced. More people are asking where their jewellery comes from and how it’s made. To me, ethical sourcing isn’t just about a “conflict-free” label—it’s about taking care of the people behind the craft. Jewellery should be created with joy, pride, and integrity. That energy stays with the piece.

What advice would you give to someone considering their first bespoke piece?

Start curious. You don’t need a fixed idea, just a sense of what matters to you. Trust your gut, and let the process surprise you. The most meaningful pieces are never chosen from the head... they’re born from the heart. Sometimes, the stone chooses you. I always encourage clients to trust their instincts. At MADLY, we help you feel confident listening to your gut—not trends, not resale value, but what feels right in your life at that moment.

What’s next for MADLY Gems and for you?

The UK has always been on our radar. My husband, Wez, is British, and we’re now members of the UK’s National Association of Jewellers. Feels like the right first step. As always, we’ll let the gems do the talking when the time is right.