Akunna Nwala-Akano, founder of Akano Diamonds, expresses her deep connection to gemstones and their inherent qualities. “Design and the rarity and quality of gemstones are everything to me. My love for diamonds comes from the timeless elegance, femininity, and strength they impart when worn,” she notes. Akano Diamonds, previously known as DEJ, is a Lagos-based high-jewellery house rooted in Nwala-Akano’s cultural heritage and her belief in the transformative power of jewels.
In just three years, Akano Diamonds has transitioned from a niche secret among Nigeria’s jewellery aficionados to a growing global presence. The brand has attracted celebrity clientele and is set to unveil a flagship store. The recent high-jewellery collection aims to captivate clients and advocate for the renaissance of the African jewellery landscape. Nwala-Akano acknowledges the skepticism about the standards of African high and fine jewellery but delights in surpassing those expectations.
Nwala-Akano’s passion for jewellery was ignited by her grandmother, who introduced her to emeralds, rubies, coral, and other gemstones. “Jewellery is not just adornment; for me, as an Igbo woman, it carries spiritual and cultural significance. The studs a baby wears symbolize prayers for a prosperous life, and jewellery has long represented status and lineage,” she explains.
Her designs are deeply influenced by folklore, nature, and personal experiences. For instance, a 75-carat rubellite is reimagined as a potion vessel in the Mkpo suite, while a collection of emerald beads, inspired by the rainy season, transforms into the Mkpulu suite. The ‘Anwi’ suite, named after the black velvet tamarind, features tsavorite, orange sapphire, and diamond elements, inspired by the fruit’s vibrant hues. The ‘Chika’ suite, a turquoise, emerald, and diamond creation, serves as a tribute to her daughter, reflecting the sacred nature of the gemstone in various cultures.
Nwala-Akano’s use of Igbo names for her pieces reflects her deep cultural connection. “My first language is Igbo, and it anchors my creativity. Despite traveling the world, my cultural understanding profoundly influences my work, which I aim to share through my jewellery,” she says.
Her journey into design began as a response to the lack of desired pieces from other jewellers. “During the pandemic, I started sketching designs, and it proved to be an ideal time for creative exploration,” she recalls. Nwala-Akano’s extensive private collection includes renowned Parisian jewellers, yet she was driven to refine her unique design language through experimentation and innovation.
Her clientele primarily comprises women seeking classic yet bold pieces that reflect the essence of the fierce African woman. Reflecting on the brand’s recent name change from DEJ to Akano Diamonds, Nwala-Akano shares, “The change reflects how much of my personal story informs my designs. I want to build a heritage house that endures for generations, with diamonds at its core.”
Nwala-Akano’s dedication to integrating tradition with modernity positions Akano Diamonds as a prominent force in redefining African high-jewellery.
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