9.21.2009

Local Jeweler KAKIdesigns

KAKIdesigns is an Austin-based jewelry company run by UT student Kaki Gaines. Determined to make each piece a work of art, Gaines creates one-of-a-kind jewelry using beads, stones, and vintage relics. With a style that incorporates classic sophistication with a uniquely modern edge, KAKIdesigns jewelry is the perfect accent to any outfit. Her pieces are sold online at http://web.mac.com/kakidesigns and at C. Jane Boutique in Austin, Texas.

1. Here fishy fishy…

While scouring the jewelry at Jive, an unapologetically eccentric San Antonio vintage store, I found this figural blowfish pin. Although it could possibly be a hazard to your wrist, it will surely give you a sharp stylish edge. I paired the blowfish with a 1970s era ocean-blue bangle to offset the red eye. I’ve never been so comfortable with such a dangerous creature so close to my body!

Price: $60

2. So, my boyfriend and I got in a fight one night. In the midst of my angst I turned creative, making this turquoise stone necklace. It is probably my favorite piece in stock right now, and looks fab with that little black dress. Constructed with an ultra-shiny chain that once belonged to my grandmother, turquoise stones, and a fun little V-shaped bead, this necklace can be wrapped around your neck once or twice.

Price: $65


3. Money clips aren’t just for your grandfather! I came across this 1972 JFK half dollar clip at the Austin Antique mall--one of my favorite places to search for vintage gems. I used wire to shut the clip, and pulled a gold chain through the top to make it wearable. I love the look of the silver and gold combination, as well as the craftsmanship in the clip. Made of copper and nickel.

Price: $45

4. My obsession with these dainty sea-creatures most likely stems from habitually watching The Little Mermaid as a child. With my fiery red hair, I aspired to be everything Ariel. Now, as an aspiring jewelry designer, I love to include these creatures in my work because it gives my pieces a look that transcends what any simple stone could achieve.

Price: $70

5. This piece comes straight from Barcelona, Spain where I studied this past summer. One day after class, I decided to wander through the Gothic neighborhood with no sense of direction or goal. My journey was rewarded when I came upon a tiny bead shop, probably five feet wide, owned by Pakistani immigrants. The store had several glass cases filled with beautiful handcrafted gem and stone treasures. I absolutely fell in love with this white geode and purchased it along with a similar one with a green stone. Their seven year old son was the only one who spoke English, so after a lot of pointing and hand motioning, I walked out a satisfied customer.

Price: $65

ATTN: Kaki Gaines submitted a necklace design to the 2010 People's Choice Awards show competition and is now one of three nationwide finalists chosen. The necklace with the most votes from the people wins and is manufactured, becomes part of jewelry designer Kendra Scott's collection, and is worn at the People's Choice Awards red carpet event in Los Angeles in January! So please take two seconds to vote (you can vote once every 24 hours until October 4th) by clicking on this link below. By voting, you automatically are entered to win a trip to the People's Choice Awards in January! Her necklace is the one with turquoise and gold with black detail.

Vote TODAY:

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