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If you’ve been craving a jewelry refresh that feels distinct, expressive and grounded in craftsmanship, consider this your sign. Across the continent, a generation of African jewelry brands are creating some of the most exciting work in fashion right now. They’re blending sculptural silhouettes, ancestral references, local materials and contemporary techniques to create pieces that feel both wearable and collectible.

From Nairobi to Lagos to Cape Town, these designers offer a fresh alternative to traditional Western luxury and fashion insiders have taken notice. If your jewelry box could use pieces that spark conversation, here are seven dazzling brands to add to your collection immediately.

 

Adele Dejak

Kenyan-Ugandan designer Adele Dejak has been a mainstay of contemporary African jewelry for over a decade — and for good reason. Her work blends avant-garde silhouettes with handmade techniques, all executed in recycled brass, horn and reclaimed materials sourced locally.

Her pieces sit at the intersection of fashion, art and architecture. They’re made for women who want jewelry that commands attention without saying a word.

What to expect? Bold cuffs, angular chokers, oversized earrings. Nothing dainty,  everything unforgettable.

 

Symbols of Authority 

Bold. Sculptural. Intentional. Symbols of Authority is the Nigeria-born, Toronto-based, globally-loved brand creating statement jewelry inspired by African motifs, regalia and storytelling.

SOA pieces are instantly recognizable for their architectural silhouettes and gold-plated finishes — wearable pieces of art meant to evoke strength and cultural pride. Each design feels like a modern heirloom: thoughtful in form, expressive in detail and crafted with longevity in mind.

Our editors favourite? The Dejare Bar Earrings, a clean, sculptural interpretation of modern minimalism with a powerful edge.

Pichulik

Cape Town–based Pichulik has earned international acclaim for its signature rope-based jewelry, which incorporates traditional crafting techniques with sculptural design. Founded by Katherine-Mary Pichulik, the brand infuses spiritual symbolism, protective motifs and feminine energy into each piece.

These are the accessories you wear when you want your jewelry to feel like both adornment and ritual.

Styling tip? Pair their rope necklaces with linen, crisp cotton, or monochromatic looks to let the textures shine.

 

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Khoi

Khoi offers a refined, minimalist approach to African-inspired design. Their jewelry is clean-lined, delicate, architectural — the kind of pieces you can wear every day without them ever feeling repetitive. Founded by Ghanaian American Hayet Rida, the brand is much beloved across the United States and the diaspora.

If your aesthetic skews modern, elegant and understated (but still impactful), Khoi belongs in your rotation.

Why fashion insiders love it? Pieces layer beautifully and transition from day to night with zero effort.

 

Ami Doshi Shah

Ami Doshi Shah is one of Kenya’s most acclaimed jewelry artists, celebrated for her sculptural, tactile, award-winning designs. Her pieces often reinterpret traditional forms through a contemporary lens, resulting in accessories that feel raw, powerful and deeply expressive. This is jewelry with emotional weight — pieces you wear when you want to make a statement that goes beyond aesthetics.

Best for? Collectors who want art-driven accessories rooted in heritage.

Refaini

Refaini brings a delicate yet daring touch to contemporary African jewelry. Expect sleek lines, elegant geometry and refined gold finishes that feel fresh and uncluttered. Refaini pieces are the perfect answer for anyone seeking a hybrid of everyday wearability and modern sophistication. They play nicely with everything from denim to eveningwear.

 

 

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Raya Jewelry

Based in Lagos, Raya Jewelry is known for its intricate gemwork and poetic, handcrafted details. Their designs often incorporate organic shapes and natural textures while maintaining a bold fashion-jewelry sensibility. Raya pieces feel like the kind of jewelry that becomes part of your personal archive.

 

If your jewelry box needs a reset, these seven African brands offer some of the most compelling, fashion-forward designs of the moment. Sculptural brass, bold silhouettes, rope textures, modern heirlooms — each brand brings something fresh, intentional and beautifully crafted.