Finding My Own Path: The Journey to Nangi

This year marks eight years since I started Nangi together with my husband Danuka. Eight years since a simple idea turned into a lifelong passion and a growing business. Looking back, I can see the defining moments that shaped my journey—from a career in renewable energy to creating a fine jewelry brand that aligns with my deepest values.

When Your Dream Job Isn’t Your Dream

Sustainability has always been close to my heart. Even as a child, I picked up trash on my way home from school, determined to make a difference. So when I landed a role in renewable energy, I thought I had found my calling. On paper, it was the perfect job. In reality, it left me feeling drained and unfulfilled.

I wanted to create something—something I truly cared about, where I could blend sustainability with creativity. At the time, I had no idea that a trip to Sri Lanka would change everything.

A Spark of Inspiration in Sri Lanka

When Danuka proposed, we knew we wanted to get married in Sri Lanka. We had traveled there for years, and his family roots made it the perfect place to celebrate. During our trips, I couldn’t help but notice the stunning gemstones everywhere, but I never considered buying any. The designs didn’t quite fit my style, and I wasn’t drawn to what was available.

Then I had an idea: what if I designed my own pieces?

I started creating a few designs, just for fun, and when I shared them with friends, the response surprised me—they wanted pieces too. That was the moment I realized there was something here.

Have you heard about "The Island of Jewels"?

The Turning Point: A Bold Decision in 2019

When Nangi officially took shape, I knew that sustainability had to be at its core. Ethical sourcing and responsible craftsmanship weren’t optional for me; they were non-negotiable. That’s why, in 2019, we made the bold choice to exclusively work with lab-grown diamonds.

At the time, lab-grown diamonds were still a new concept in Norway, and no other jeweler had taken that step. But I knew it was the right choice. The traditional diamond industry didn’t align with the values I had built Nangi on. Instead, we chose diamonds without the environmental and ethical concerns. It was a risk, but it was a risk worth taking. Today, I’m proud to say that Nangi was the first Norwegian jeweler to offer lab-grown diamonds, setting a new standard in the industry.

Learn more: 3 Reasons The Kimberley Process Doesn't Work

A Journey Built on Passion

Starting a business isn’t easy. There have been long nights, tough decisions, and moments of doubt. But every time I see a Nangi piece being worn by someone who believes in what we do, I’m reminded why I started.

This is more than jewelry. It’s about creating something meaningful. It’s about challenging traditions, making sustainable choices, and building a brand that empowers.

To everyone who has supported us from the beginning—to my friends who encouraged my first designs, to the customers who believed in lab-grown diamonds before they became mainstream—Nangi wouldn’t exist without you.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We’re only getting started.