ABOUT KOHATU + PETROS
Jewellery with a Story, Crafted for Yours
The handcrafted jewellery being created
From our London studio, we hand-select extraordinary gemstones to create soulful, timeless pieces. We believe jewellery is a celebration of individuality, a wearable reflection of the moments and character that define you.
Our Independent Promise
Handcrafted in the UK
London-based studio
Independent Since 2006
2 decades of experience
Natural Origin Gemstones
Responsibly selected
Award-Winning Jewellery
Acclaimed excellence
The Old Amersham Studio
Kohatu + Petros
Founded in 2006, Kohatu + Petros is an independent online jewellery boutique rooted in authenticity, elegance, and style. Each season, Varney unveils new designs inspired by art, fashion, and the shifting tones of the season. Crafted in semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver, and gold vermeil, every piece is thoughtfully designed and handcrafted for beauty, individuality, and effortless wear.
Alongside her own creations, Varney curates a selection of jewellery from admired designers, chosen to harmonise with her aesthetic.
The name Kohatu + Petros reflects the origins of its founders:
Kohatu is the word for Stone in Maori
Petros is the word for Rock in Greek
“My inspiration comes from everywhere. From travel, art, and architecture to nature, textiles, and unexpected details found in daily life.”
Kohatu + Petros Brand Heritage Timeline
2005-2015
The Foundation
Flagship Boutique opens on Chiltern Street
Founded in London’s Marylebone, Kohatu + Petros began as a creative partnership inspired by the raw beauty of gemstones and traditional Greek and Maori influences.
2015-2019
Curating the Vision
Expansion of signature Bespoke collections
A period of refined focus, establishing the brand as a destination for handcrafted jewellery designed for the modern individual and featured in Professional Jeweller's.
2020-2022
Growth & Resilience
Transition to a Digital-First Boutique
Navigating a changing world by moving our intimate studio experience online, ensuring the personal touch of our London workshop reached a global audience.
2022 +
The Future of our Craft and Design
Launching Conscious Luxury initiatives
A new chapter of expansion, blending our heritage of hand-selected stones with contemporary artistry and a deepened commitment to ethical, traceable creation.
Varney showcasing new pieces
Varney Polydor | Creative Director
BIOGRAPHY
Varney was born in Australia to a Greek family. Her father ran a small business, while her mother worked as a seamstress. Watching her mother sew ignited Varney’s early fascination with making and design. As a teenager, she would analyse emerging fashion trends and bring her own ideas to life by sourcing fabrics and sewing her own creations.
Her career journey began in the travel industry, working with British Airways in Sydney and London during the 1980s and early 1990s. She then transitioned into the fashion industry, gaining valuable experience in New York City throughout the 1990s. Later, she trained as a florist, founding Evanthia Flowers in 2000. Varney was part of a new wave of florists who emerged from the prestigious Jane Packer Flower School in London. Her deep understanding of colour, texture and fashion trends provided a unique vision that seamlessly translated into the art of jewellery design.
Varney’s work is defined by its emphasis on elegance, colour and style. She draws inspiration from a single colour or theme, weaving it into a cohesive narrative through the use of exquisite gemstones and materials.
Her diverse career path and lifelong passion for fashion and design have culminated in a love for creating everyday, wearable jewellery.
Varney and Joanna, featured in Professional Jeweller HOT100 - 2014
HISTORY
2005-2015
The Kohatu + Petros brand was founded in 2005 by Varney Polydor and Joanna Salmond, following a transformative trip to Hong Kong that sparked their passion for the stunning array of beautiful gemstones. Together, the talented design duo brought the Kohatu + Petros brand to life.
They began in a small Marylebone studio before opening their intimate and luxurious boutique on fashionable Chiltern Street - considered by Condé Nast Traveller magazine as London's coolest street.
In addition to their own collections, the duo also showcased emerging designers, including Cara Tonkin, Neola, Tomasz Donocik, Sushilla, Alice Menter, Tina Lilienthal, and Mara Hutong.
Kohatu + Petros Jewellery boutique opened in Chiltern St , London W1 - November 2010 and closed September 2015 when Joanna decided to relocate to her home in New Zealand.
Working with personal stylist Suzanne from Coathanger
2015-2019
Varney continued to grow the Kohatu + Petros brand as an online boutique, offering worldwide shipping, while also hosting ‘Pop Up Shops’ across the Greater London area throughout the year. The locations of these pop-ups were shared via email and social media.
In addition, Varney worked closely with personal stylists, who introduced her jewellery to their discerning clientele. She also collaborated with like-minded women in business, supporting and promoting small independent ventures.
The Old Amersham Studio - opened in March 2020
2020-2022
In March 2020, Varney opened her studio in Old Amersham, alongside Cecilia Quinn Shoe Boutique—quickly becoming one of her most successful pop-up locations. Driven by demand and strong local connections, it marked the right step for her brand.
The styling side has since grown, with clients seeking jewellery advice in person or via appointment. Meanwhile, her online shop and social presence continue to evolve.
In December 2021, as Market Square was refurbished, K+P moved into its next chapter.
2022 Onwards
Online offerings, collaborations, and events in Amersham, Henley, and Central London will carry on— sign up to stay connected with us.
The business continues to flourish, upholding the personal service that customers have always valued, while the Kohatu + Petros brand remains a beacon of authenticity, elegance and style.
For further information or to book an appointment, email Varney at studio@kohatuandpetros.com
AWARDS
The success of Kohatu + Petros has been recognised by receiving the following accolades:
Professional Jeweller Top 100 - 2014
Retail Jeweller Inspiring Independent -2014
Finalist in the UK Jewellery Awards - Boutique of the Year 2014
Winner of the UK Jewellery Awards Shop Window Competition - 2013
Finalist in the UK Jewellery Awards Boutique of the Year - 2013
Retail Jeweller Inspiring Independent - 2012
Proud supporters of 'The Cheapside Hoard - London's Lost Jewels' exhibition at the Museum of London 2013/14
“I love their evolving collections... What I wear must be of excellent quality, and it is a treat to shop with Varney, who has such a wonderful approach to her business.”
Our Community Focus
Supporting the causes close to our hearts
We are proud to support the UK’s leading mental health charity, helping to ensure no one has to face a mental health problem alone.
Empowering women to reach their full potential by providing the clothes and coaching they need to succeed in the workplace.
Helping to create a society that works for autistic people and providing vital support to individuals and their families.
