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EditorsNov 13, 2014
Jewelry for every woman’s ‘hero aspect’
One of the best parts of this job and this industry is hands down not only getting to see all the amazing jewelry but also getting to talk to the people--manufacturers, designers, retailers--behind it. This is especially true when these conversations take place in person and I get to hear, for example, the inspiration and idea behind a jewelry collection from the artist themselves. Last week I was lucky enough to meet with a designer who was new to me, Lisa Kim, and hear firsthand about her new collection, “Windlords.” With a feminine-yet-edgy look that I think will speak to the modern self-purchaser, Kim’s jewelry draws from other interests of hers--mythology, fantasy literature and ancient history. She also has a background in animation and has studied the techniques of chasing and repoussé. She is based in Los Angeles, where she produces all her jewelry locally. It’s available in karat gold or sterling silver, and uses ethically sourced gemstones chosen for their color and features. Currently she sells in a few select stores but is looking to expand her presence in independent retailers. The design aesthetic of her new Windlords collection is a direct reflection of Kim’s belief in the parallel between “the mythic hero and the modern woman,” offering a big, bold look for a more affordable price point. Scroll down to see a few of my favorites from my recent visit with Kim. This is Kim’s “Shield” ring, made with a rose-cut moonstone, oxidized sterling silver and 18-karat yellow gold ($6,125).
At left are Kim’s “Large Genie Fans” in 18-karat yellow gold ($2,100), which also come in sterling silver, and pictured at right are the “Moonbird” earrings ($315), also available in yellow gold.
Kim’s moonstone cutout bird pendant in 18-karat yellow gold ($3,150), and the “Moonclaw” pendant with moonstone and 18-karat yellow gold ($3,250)
The “Birdhelm” ring in sterling silver ($615) and at right is the “Cosmic” opal ring in 18-karat yellow gold ($720).
The bird earrings on the left feature spectrolite in 18-karat yellow gold ($3,650) and the Starburst earrings on the right boast Welo opals ($1,950).
This one-of-a-kind “Ring of Last Light” features a pink tourmaline that was cut by Jean-Noel Soni, accented with trillion diamonds and made in 18-karat yellow gold ($23,250).
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