Scent Style: Gjenmi Jewelry Founder Jennifer Sung

“Dressing for work” has changed. As video calls embed themselves further and further into our daily lives, it’s less about smart trousers and block heels and more about the right earrings and a good hair day. A glimmer of gold can make all the difference.

Jennifer Sung knows this well. As the founder of Gjenmi jewelry, she creates modern heirlooms that are simple yet sophisticated, playful yet polished. Using conflict-free, high-quality materials, she puts her focus on shape and structure, resulting in an effortless beauty.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day (jewelry’s time to shine), Sung shares how she scents her Los Angeles store and studio.

Scent is so personal. What does it mean to you?

To me it’s very much like jewelry. I have an unhealthy amount of adored perfumes and oils, so when it comes to scents, I am very particular.

For my workspace, I love an evergreen Eucalyptus scent in the studio, but I also like to dive in when it comes to seasonal smells. In the fall, a warm cinnamon or pumpkin smell might be floating in the studio; after that, I might do a pine or Eucalyptus scent during the holiday and winter months. The smell of fresh-cut roses during February always puts me in a romantic mood for Valentine’s Day.

Describe your personality in three to five words.

Sensitive, fair, feminine, open-minded, introspective.

With those words in mind, tell us about the diffuser blend that you’ve created to represent your scent style.

I started with Eucalyptus; it’s truly one of my favorite scents. Then I added Cedarwood and loved this combination very much: it was a perfect blend of a light and clean yet woodsy and masculine smell. Anyone and everyone who entered the shop mentioned how lovely the store smelled.

Why did you choose each of these oils and how do they work together? What does the final aroma smell like or remind you of?

The diffuser is in the back of the store, which is actually the middle of the whole space—so I get to enjoy the smell while I work in the back designing and making jewelry. It is such a treat to be able to relax while I work and have this calming scent in the background.

Aside from scent, what else makes you feel truly at home in your space?

I love the little notes and cards from my kids that are on my wall; they always remind me of why I started Gjenmi. They inspire me to be a better person every day.

What’s your favorite thing about your home? 

My favorite thing about my home and workspace is that they’re filled with items that I actually need and use every day—and that I also know the maker or designer behind said things. My mugs, art, and wall hangings are all made by people I can put a face to, and this makes me feel like I am living a life I believe in. When you purchase from a local maker or business owner, you’re investing in so many different things. You’re putting your dollars back into your community; you’re believing in and supporting a small business. It’s a great feeling to contribute in small, meaningful ways that make your everyday life a little more special.