A Legacy of Craftsmanship, A Future of Inspiration

Born into an Armenian family where tradition and artistry ran deep, Najib Chakian was immersed in a world of fine craftsmanship from a young age. In a household that valued patience, precision, and pride in one’s work, it was only natural that Najib would be drawn to the delicate and expressive world of jewellery making.

With a spark of curiosity and an unshakable determination, Najib embarked on his journey into the world of jewellery as a teenager in the early 1980s. Travelling alone across borders, he sought out master jewellers and renowned ateliers—not merely to learn, but to immerse himself in the centuries-old techniques that turn metal and gemstone into wearable art. These formative years shaped not only his skills, but his ethos: integrity in every detail, and excellence without compromise.

A Journey Through Generations

Craftsmanship was never just a profession for Najib—it was a way of life. His commitment to traditional methods, paired with an openness to evolve, allowed him to become a bridge between the old world and the new. As he grew his reputation, so too did the dream of building something lasting—a place where heritage, skill, and artistry would live on through generations.

That vision became reality in 2009, when he established his atelier in Melbourne. More than just a workshop, it was a sanctuary for creativity and collaboration. When his son Shant joined him, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. With Shant at his side, the atelier became not just a family business, but a multi-generational story written in precious metal and stone.

The Atelier Experience

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s prestigious Collins Street, the Chakian Atelier is a reflection of everything Najib and Shant stand for: quiet elegance, timeless beauty, and meaningful connections. Stepping into the space, clients are welcomed into an environment where they are not just customers—but co-creators.

Every consultation is a conversation, every design a journey. Whether a client is commissioning a bespoke engagement ring or restoring a treasured heirloom, the process is deeply personal. It begins with understanding the story behind the piece—and ends with a meticulously handcrafted work of art designed to last a lifetime.

The Chakian Philosophy: Craft With Purpose

At the core of the Chakian philosophy is a belief that jewellery should do more than adorn—it should connect, commemorate, and endure. This purpose guides every decision in the atelier, from ethically sourced materials to hand-drawn sketches and hand-set stones.

Najib and Shant believe in the slow art of jewellery making, where nothing is rushed and every detail matters. It is a philosophy rooted in respect—for the craft, for the client, and for the story each piece is meant to tell.

Heritage Meets Innovation

While Najib brings decades of traditional craftsmanship and a master’s touch, Shant brings a fresh perspective—infusing contemporary design elements, modern technology, and a global sensibility into the atelier’s work. This dynamic collaboration allows Chakian Atelier to serve a diverse clientele, bridging classic elegance with modern sophistication.

The fusion of heritage and innovation ensures that every piece is not only technically exquisite, but also stylistically relevant—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

More Than Jewellery

To own a Chakian piece is to hold a story. It’s a celebration of love, a symbol of legacy, or a reminder of life’s most important milestones. For Najib and Shant, jewellery is about human connection—it’s about honouring the past, embracing the present, and creating beauty that will be cherished in the future.

Whether you're marking a new beginning or preserving a memory, Chakian Atelier is where your story becomes timeless.