When Amany Shaker searched for an inspiration of her new collection she looked no further than the sky with its vast offerings. The founder of the Los Angeles based jewelry brand AMMANII, her latest collection titled ‘Sa’maa” (the Arabic word for sky) is derived from the designer’s love for skylines. The mesmerizing collection is comprised of 18 pieces, including earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets. Most of the pieces feature celestial shapes, dominated by star and crescent forms. All pieces are silver jewelry plated in 18k gold, and sometimes 21k, using microplating, a highly precise plating technique, ensuring that the plating would last for the longest time. Adding a nostalgic touch to the jewelry, alluding to the designer’s Egyptian heritage, the gold plating on the jewelry has been finished using the sanding technique giving it a unique texture. We spoke to the woman behind the brand as she tells us about her love for skies, inspiration, and future endeavors.
Where do you draw your inspiration?
Nature and human history are my great inspiration and guidance. I try to find a common human connection that could be translated across cultures. Once I have the initial inspiration or idea that would be the theme for a collection, there’s a lot of research involved to learn about the historical significance or meaning that resonate with my idea.
“Sa’mma” collection is a good example. Throughout my travels, I’ve always been fascinated by the skyline in different countries. I was moved one day by realizing that the sky is the universal blanket that covers and protects all us all with no differentiation between color, race, religion or any orientation. I’m also fascinated by the meaning and power of celestial beings, what they represent in many cultures, and the historical stories associated with them. The unchanging nature of the stars was used to regulate the daily calendar of the most advanced of civilizations. The stars were said to represent the souls of those who departed and are watching over us. The moon was used to guide the travelers on their convoy in the desert, to provide light and direction. The eye is the divine power that provides sense of protection. I wanted this new collection to reflect the spirit of the greater protection and guidance that stem from the steady unchanging confidence in knowing who we are. We have a strength that can withstand the turbulence of life and shine brighter after the storms. I want Sa’mma to signify the grace and power that women hold and be a reminder to confidently live in a way that honors the gift we have, being a woman!
Take us through the design process…
I start sketching different possible interpretations of the initial theme, always keeping in how to match design with functionality. Creativity is key while searching for the material the best protects the integrity of the design. Any design goes through distinct phases of tweaking and changing until it’s finally ready to be translated into an actual jewelry piece.
When designing how much are you influenced by trends, and if you do how do you still manage to keep your designs uniquely yours?
I’m not really influenced by trends when designing. I believe in setting your own personal trend, one that speaks to you and not just follow the crowd. I find that to be more unique and attractive than following what is popular! I’m in the fashion scene, I travel often and have lived around the world; my global awareness defines most of my designs and transcends the idea of a trend. I’m presenting lifelong stories through beautiful timeless, yet fashion forward jewelry designs
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Unique, personable and luxurious. I pay close attention to the details of the design and how it’s meticulously executed. This is my way of honoring my work and the special women who will wear it.
Describe the Sa’mma collection in 3 words. What is your favorite piece(s) from the collection?
Daring. Feminine. Engaging
I love all the pieces. Like your kids, hard to have favorites!
The Dome ring is close to me though; as it resembles the sky sphere with all celestial components and the protective eye watching over all of us.
How would you like women to see your jewelry and style it?
I’d like the AMMANII wearer to have her own connection with the piece and style it in a way that reflects her own personality and inner beauty. That’s really my goal.
What is your future plan for your brand?
My plan is to become the go-to jewelry brand for many women in the region and globally, that means designing more and telling more stories through the designs. Also continue to establish my designs as ambassador of peace that can connect women across the world with a shared purpose.
