Catherine Sarr’s ALMASIKA: Jewelry as Cultural Storytelling

Catherine Sarr, founder and designer of the fine jewelry brand ALMASIKA, has redefined luxury accessories by infusing intentional storytelling into her creations.

With a background in marketing and over a decade of experience in the diamond industry at prestigious companies like De Beers Group, the Chicago-born designer took an unconventional path to launch her brand.

Drawing from her global journey, which took her from Paris to London, Sarr has built a brand that blends cultural heritage with modern elegance, making ALMASIKA a unique voice in the world of luxury jewelry.

ALMASIKA’s name is a fusion of the Swahili word “Almasi” (diamond) and “Sika” (gold in several languages), reflecting the brand’s commitment to honoring diverse cultural symbols.

Sarr’s debut collection, “Le Cauri Endiamanté,” paid tribute to the cowrie shell, reimagining this ancient symbol in gold and diamonds. The collection’s success was marked by its introduction at the now-legendary Parisian concept store Colette, signaling ALMASIKA’s arrival in the luxury fashion world.

Sarr’s design philosophy centers on creating pieces that resonate universally, regardless of cultural or ethnic background. Her sculptural jewelry draws inspiration from the shared human experience, connecting people through symbols that transcend borders.

“I design for individuals who are inherently passionate about the world around them. They are independent thinkers who are curious, cultured, and dynamic,” Sarr tells Essence.

Her creations speak to those who seek jewelry that is both beautiful and meaningful.

Much of Sarr’s work is inspired by her experiences living across three continents and four countries, as well as her love for art, literature, and personal research.

The “Harmony Collection,” for example, draws from the abstract concept of sound, translating sound waves into elegant shapes crafted from 18k gold and marquise diamonds. This collection embodies the ebb and flow of sound, merging it with the organic curves of Sarr’s design aesthetic.

Among her favorite works, Sarr holds her debut collection “Le Cauri Endiamanté” closest to her heart, as it laid the foundation for ALMASIKA’s journey. The “Harmony” collection follows as a close second, reflecting her passion for abstract design and the connections that unite people across cultures.

As her brand evolves, Sarr is enthusiastic about collaborations that allow her to explore new creative avenues. From partnerships with Paris Basketball to projects with De Beers Group and Sotheby’s, these opportunities have enriched her artistic expression and expanded ALMASIKA’s influence.

“These moments remind me of the impact that thoughtful design can have on both individual lives and the broader cultural landscape,” Sarr shares.

Looking ahead, Sarr envisions ALMASIKA as a global symbol of cultural connection. She aims to create timeless pieces that speak to people across generations and cultures.

“Ultimately, I hope ALMASIKA will inspire others to see the beauty in our shared human experiences and to celebrate the connections that unite us all,” she adds.

ALMASIKA’s collections are available on the brand’s website, almasika.com, as well as at luxury retailers including Net-a-Porter, Moda Operandi, and Bergdorf Goodman.