The Californian jewelry designer imagines collections imbued with spirituality. Native American turquoises, hammered gold, amulets and gems, her creations are at the crossroads of ancient culture and lithotherapy.
Body chains, pendants or rings in semi-precious gemstones, Jacquie Aiche’s creations have established themselves in the world of jewelery for five years. Rich in a dual cultural heritage inherited from her Egyptian and American parents, the designer crafts her ornaments with an aesthetic characterized by the fusion of Native American relics, Middle Eastern influences and New Age imagery. With her bohemian spirit marked by spirituality, Jacquie Aiche talks about her inspirations and the philosophy behind her adornments.
Do you believe in lithotherapy, the power of stones, and do you pay attention to it in the design of your jewelry?
I find crystals to be incredibly powerful and sacred talismans…Through the vibration of the chakras they harness the elements of the Earth to move, absorb and focus energy within the body. The whole design process is so special to me… Every stone I use is selected from a collection I have collected over the years. My work is based on an intuitive feeling. There is nothing I love more.
To what extent do your jewels draw their influences from ancient culture?
The ancient culture has a reverence for Mother Nature with which I have always aligned myself. The patterns you will find in my collections all have their own power. The thunderbird is an amulet of protection, the sun is a positive energy magnet, the eye dispels negativity… I choose each symbol with a particular intention.
How do you manage to combine fantasy and jewelry?
I believe that when you choose the right piece of jewelry, it can be incredibly transformative. You instantly feel a change within you and you light up with confidence. I wouldn’t say it’s fantastic, it’s very real. The minerals used and the intention set in each piece make it much more personal than some pieces of jewelry. They become talismans designed to enhance one’s natural glow.
Would you say that the jewel contributes to affirming its style?
Sure. Whether you’re wearing a T-shirt and jeans, a little black dress or nothing at all… There’s no better feeling than being covered in diamonds and gold.
How do you explain the designers’ particular attachment to the bohemian style since the 1970s?
The seventies were such an inspiring time because of everything they stood for: love, freedom, unity and happiness. It was rebellious and shameless, just like me!
What do you prefer in Los Angeles?
I love the carefree atmosphere of Los Angeles. All my pieces embody this ethereal ease, with a hint of rebellion. The magic of Mother Nature is so accessible here. All of my collections have a sparkle and light that reflects the beauty I see all around me, from the wildflowers to the ocean…I believe there is a California girl in all of us: wild, sensual and free…
Charlotte Merlet