
Not Just Another Jewelry Brand: Why I Created Theora
Melody TiggemannShare
When I started Theora, it was more than just a jewelry line. It was a way to express love, legacy, and identity through timeless pieces that tell a story.
The name Theora holds deep personal meaning — it’s a tribute to my children. Their names are a constant reminder of what truly matters: love, strength, and family. These values are at the heart of Theora, just like the stories of the women who inspire me every day.
My journey into the world of jewelry has been a long one. From grade school, I was fascinated by jewelry and began designing and making my own accessories. It was a creative outlet and a way to express myself. Now, with Theora, I feel like I’ve come full circle — I’ve finally brought together my childhood love for jewelry and my desire to create something that reflects the power and beauty of the women who wear it.
As a Filipina living in Germany, I often feel like I’m walking between two worlds. I carry with me the warmth, strength, and resilience of the women in my life — my mother, my sister, my grandmothers, and all the women who came before me in the Philippines. Their stories of perseverance, kindness, and quiet power have shaped me and continue to shape Theora.
To honor this connection, I chose to work with Philippine pearls — each one imperfect, organic, and filled with meaning. Pearls are more than just beautiful. In Filipino culture, they symbolize wisdom, strength, and the stories passed down through generations. They remind us that, like a pearl, we are shaped by our experiences and grow stronger with time. Some of these pearl jewelry pieces are handmade by me, adding even more personal significance to each design. I want every piece to feel like a reflection of the love and care that goes into creating it.
In addition to creating beautiful pieces, I also want to showcase the rich tradition of Filipino craftsmanship. Through Theora, I hope to highlight not only the beauty of Philippine pearls but also the incredible artisans and products that use these pearls, bringing a touch of the Philippines to the world stage.
But Theora isn’t just about the materials. It’s about the spirit of women empowerment. Every piece I design and carefully curate, is meant to empower the woman who wears it — to remind her of her own strength, beauty, and worth. Whether you're navigating your career, motherhood, or personal dreams, Theora is for the woman who wears her story proudly and unapologetically.
While some of Theora’s current pieces are curated, my future vision is to create more of my own designs that truly reflect this deep sense of empowerment and cultural pride. These pieces will not only honor the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship but also embody the power of women everywhere — strong, beautiful, and ever-evolving.
Theora is not just about looking good. It’s about wearing your story — the story of who you are, where you’ve been, and where you’re going. It’s about celebrating the strength of women around the world. Every piece is a step in that journey, designed with love, intention, and a sense of empowerment.
Welcome to Theora. It’s personal here, and it’s just the beginning.