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.

Kohatu + Petros

Kohatu + Petros, established in 2006, is an independent online jewellery boutique built on a foundation of authenticity, elegance and style. Each season, Varney introduces fresh designs, exploring exciting colour palettes and materials inspired by art, fashion and seasonal trends. Using semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver and gold vermeil, the collections are meticulously designed and handcrafted by Varney and her team. Customers are captivated by her designs for their beauty, individuality and accessibility.

In addition to her own creations, Varney curates a thoughtfully selected jewellery collection from other designers she admires. These pieces are chosen to complement her work, adding a unique and harmonious dimension to the boutique's offerings.

"My designs draw inspiration from so many aspects of life," Varney explains, "from my immediate surroundings to travelling, visits to art museums, the catwalk, nature and architecture. Some of my best ideas come from unexpected places—a pattern in a carpet, treasures found on the beach, a piece of art, a bustling artisan market or a beautifully printed fabric.”

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

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.

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

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. 

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.

2020 - 2022

In March 2020, Varney opened her studio in Old Amersham, situated alongside the renowned Cecilia Quinn Shoe Boutique marking one of the most successful 'pop-up' locations in recent years. The decision to establish her independent retail shop and studio in Old Amersham was driven by popular demand, the perfect environment and the strong working relationships with local small businesses and clientele in the area. It was truly the 'right' move for her brand.

The styling aspect of the business has grown even stronger, with customers regularly bringing in their outfits for jewellery advice. Varney’s Marylebone and London clientele are never forgotten, and they can easily reach out via email to book an appointment if they're unable to visit the studio in Old Amersham.

The online shop continues to improve, complemented by a robust social media presence.

In December 2021, as Market Square in Old Amersham undergoes refurbishment, K+P takes the next step and moves on to a new chapter.

2022 & Onwards…

Online offerings, collaborations, and events in Amersham, Henley, and Central London will carry on—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

Charities supported are Mind, Smart Works and National Autistic Society