About

Born in Tanzania and currently operating from Seattle, Washington; Canadian designer Shamila Jiwa creates jewelry for the modern woman.  Inspired by a colorful childhood growing up along the dramatic East African coast she would accompany her father, a medical doctor to the local goldsmith to have special jewels commissioned for her mother and her sisters. Years later she would convert her hobby into a passionate career, and realize the seeds were already planted years back. Shamila's love of travel and a deep appreciation toward global aesthetics, design, culture and language are inherent in her work and in her execution of striking gems and precious metals. Combining age-old techniques with modern day stylistic elements the resulting jewels are contemporary and timeless whilst winking with clever, thoughtful details. From gleaming custom faceted gems and sinewy metal finishes to signature shanks and motifs, each jewel is designed to fit as if it were a bespoke commission for the modern day Cinderella. Using unusual gems and precious metals acquired from sustainable sources and family-owned mines, she loves creating simple and symbolic jewels, which convey a connection between her inspiration and the wearer. 

Shamila studied at the beautiful University of British Columbia in Vancouver BC, where she received a bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology and International Affairs. In addition to these majors, years were spent studying French, Spanish, Italian as well as ameliorating on her mother tongues of Hindi, Kutchi and Gujarati. A self-taught designer and avid gem collector she continues to incorporate unusual stones in her designs, revealing radiance in the often overlooked. With an expanding and discerning national and international clientele, she remains focused on designing modern heirlooms that showcase the natural beauty of spectacularly faceted gems in timeless expressions. Shamila spent a significant part of 2009 as an apprentice with goldsmiths and masters in Istanbul, Turkey. This training inspired her signature Lokum Lale Luxe collection shown in New York City during Fashion Week in the Fall 2009 and in the Czech Republic, France and England that same year. Shamila's jewelry has evoked a discerning fan base and loyal following nationwide and she has designed collections for some notable museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago and The Seattle Art Museum.

Shamila's jewelry is often featured on the red carpet at the Emmys, Oscars and the Grammys - view press

Shamila donates to a range of causes each year.