Stunningly elegant is the signature of the jewelry creations of Sri Utami, an Indonesian-born designer and the founder of Bits of Bali Jewelry.
Behind Bits of Bali Jewelry
SRI UTAMI, FOUNDER
The motivational spark came from inheriting family jewelry from her mother in 1996. With her passion for design, Sri recreated the precious stones and their settings into timeless yet contemporary pieces. In 2016, she opened her online shop Bits of Bali, later expanding to her own Sri Utami jewelry stores in Bali. Sri lives among local artisans in Bali where she is constantly surrounded by art and inspiration.
Sri has always been creative having an educational and professional background in photography, art and media. For ten years, she was based in Toronto, Canada, as a documentary photographer. Her worldwide assignments in Afghanistan, Syria, Bosnia, Turkey, Kashmir and many other places encompassed a variety of issues including the plight of refugees, child labor, education, maternal health and international development matters.
Using high quality gemstones, gold and sterling silver, Sri's design incorporates three principles: simplicity, versatility and elegance. Her feminine pieces are easy-to-wear, classy and sophisticated. When she’s not working with silversmiths, you may be lucky enough to catch up with her in one of her shops or connect at anytime via her website.
The Beginning
2016
In a bold career pivot, Sri transformed her path from documentary photography to jewelry design, launching Bits of Bali from her humble Ubud bungalow. Without external capital or investors, her entrepreneurial journey began with a single ring sale of $300 – a pivotal moment that validated her vision. This first purchase by an unknown client crystallized her business philosophy: discerning clients would invest in quality. She strategically positioned her brand in the mid-price range, masterfully combining precious gemstones with silver to create accessible luxury. After ten months of meticulous preparation and testing the market through pop-up events, Bits of Bali unveiled its first collection across Indonesian marketplaces.
Growth
2017 – 2019
Buoyed by marketplace success, the brand established its first physical presence in Ubud. Through unwavering dedication and craftsmanship, Bits of Bali's expansion was remarkable – within two years, the company operated three boutiques across Bali, creating employment opportunities for local sales professionals, administrative staff, and skilled silversmiths.
Pivot
2020
The brand's upward trajectory faced an unprecedented challenge as the global pandemic forced the closure of all three shops between 2020-2022. With Bali's tourism-dependent economy at a standstill and 80% of the local population affected, the brand demonstrated astonishing adaptability. Pivoting from their sterling silver foundations, they expanded into bespoke engagement and wedding rings, introducing gold and diamonds – a strategic move that established their presence in the fine jewelry sector.
New Beginning
2022
Marking a triumphant return, Bits of Bali secured a prestigious retail space at Bali International Airport while reinstating their presence in Ubud with a new showroom. These physical locations complemented their successful global e-commerce platform.
Recognition
2024
Years of artistic vision and craftsmanship earned Sri and Bits of Bali recognition from the fashion world's most prestigious publications, including Vogue UK, Glamour, Tatler, and Harper's Bazaar, solidifying the brand's position in the mid-range and fine jewelry landscape.