Almasika

Paris-born, Chicago-based jeweller Catherine Sarr celebrates the symbols, stories and forms that unite people across cultures and generations, through fine jewellery that combines art, design and storytelling. After a decade in London working in the highest echelons of the luxury diamond industry, in 2014 Catherine founded ALMASIKA with the aim of creating jewellery that is not only beautiful, but meaningful. In 2022, Catherine was awarded with the ‘Chevalier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres’ (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters). This prestigious recognition is bestowed by the French government on individuals that have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the field of art, culture and literature or for their contribution to the influence
of arts in France and throughout the world.

An avid art collector, patron and co-founder of the Prix Sarr in partnership with Beaux-Arts de Paris, Catherine supports artists from across the globe. She has long been inspired by the power of art to spark dialogue and tell stories. Having lived on three continents, she is fascinated by the universal significance of shapes and symbols. Her designs are rooted in symbolism that transcends culture and connects people who share an appreciation of creativity, craftsmanship and form.

In 2022 Catherine became one of the first recipients of the ‘Experimental Design Lab’ cohort, an initiative of renowned artist Theaster Gates and the Prada group. The cohort is working to support and amplify the work of 14 designers across all creative industries and have nominated by luminaries across various disciplines including Miuccia Prada, Ava Duvernay, Sir David Adjaye and the late Virgil Abloh. The aims of the program are
to dispel the notion that it is difficult to find creatives of colour and create a platform for these designers to connect and collaborate whilst presenting their work to top organisations through annual activations in New York and Los Angeles.

ALMASIKA’s signature aesthetic of abstract lines and organic curves reflects an effortless, typically Parisian elegance. Sculptural, flowing shapes are designed to echo the contours of a woman’s body and come to life against her skin - whether worn alone or stacked with other pieces as an expression of her identity.

ALMASIKA’s debut collection, Le Cauri Endiamanté, reimagined the cowry shell in 18kt gold and diamonds. An ancient symbol of prosperity, spirituality and fertility, cowries have been used as adornment and currency for generations, and are considered auspicious talismans in cultures around the world. Subsequent collections include ‘Sagesse’ taken from the French word for ‘wisdom’, the ‘Berceau’ (‘cradle’) collection takes inspiration
from the Cradle of Humanity, and the ancestral adornments that became an extension of the human form.

Simple, organic lines follow the curves of the body, appealing to our innate aesthetic sensibilities. Newest launches are the ‘Harmony’ collection inspired by sound waves and ‘Terra Nova’ a collection inspired by Catherine’s first time living in London. The collection is realised through globe’s centred not on a place but on one’s self.

Sought after by discerning art collectors, creatives and intellectuals, ALMASIKA jewellery has been worn by luminaries including Zoë Kravitz, Reese Witherspoon, Michelle Obama, Sandra Oh, Alicia Keys and Lizzo. “I design for women who are inherently curious, passionate about the world and have a great sense of style,” says Catherine. “The ALMASIKA woman dresses for herself first and foremost, exuding an innate sense of elegance and confidence.”

Each piece of ALMASIKA jewellery is crafted using 18kt gold with natural, sustainably sourced diamonds. As a member of the board of directors of the Diamonds Do Good Foundation, Catherine partners with suppliers who share her commitment to responsible sourcing and exceptional craftsmanship.