Lindsay Knox is a dear friend of Lindsay Ansley (owner of Aster), and like Lindsay A., grew up in Oakland not far from the shop. She was raised by strong women who traveled the globe and taught her to value and appreciate cultural aesthetics and all things artistic. She grew up admiring the many precious and wearable treasures that would later be handed down as family heirlooms.
Ladha has become a fan favorite among the Aster team and our customers. From everyday hoop earrings to bold cuff bracelets, to classic bridal styles, this collection truly has something to offer every jewelry lover.
Peyton: What is the story behind the name of your collection?
Lindsay: LADHA means "Flavor" in Swahili and is synonymous with "Joy, pleasure and taste". I want my jewelry to feel like a special "seasoning" that allows the wearer to express their individual flavor so to speak!
P: What is your favorite technique or process in jewelry making?
L: I love carving wax as it always feels so intuitive to me. Where to start, when to stop, and how to shape each piece is always a fun process that allows me to fall easily into flow state. I also love polishing! Watching a piece go from dull and crude to shiny and smooth is very satisfying :)
P: What is inspiring you right now?
L: Water, the ocean, shells, natural texture. Also juicy gemstones and natural diamonds in fancy shapes are always lending inspiration.
P: What's the best piece of advice you were given as an artist?
L: Go at your own pace and don't compare yourself to others.
P: What are your favorite pieces from your personal collection? Share photos!
L: I have an incredible charm bracelet given to me by my Aunt, who is really my jewelry benefactor in many ways. She collected charms for years and one Christmas presented my Sister and I with fully assembled gold bracelets, each with their own individually meaningful symbols, gemstones and sentimental charms. I also have some other substantial gold bracelets and necklaces that were passed down to me which I will treasure forever.
P: What's currently on your studio playlist?
L: I'm all over the place but usually I like to keep the vibes high. Indie rock like Sombr and Mk.gee, anything synth heavy and dancy - Kaytranada, Robyn etc. Always old school hip hop and R&B - I am a Millennial after all!
P: What's something you do for self care?
L: I love to get my nails done after a long stint of production - keeping my hands in good shape is important for so many reasons. I also love a good hot tub session!
P: Who's another artist (jeweler or other media) that you admire and why?
L: I am inspired by all of my fellow jewelry designers as everyone has something unique and special to bring to the table. One artist I have always admired especially is Ariana Brussard Reiffel. Her sculptural, organic designs have inspired me so much over the years.
P: Do you ever consider other career paths? In a parallel universe, what would you be doing if not making jewelry?
L: I think if I wasn't designing jewelry I would love to own a sweet lifestyle boutique or have a career helping to coach and support other entrepreneurs following their dreams.
P: Bonus question! Do you have any pets? Tell us about them and share some pictures!
L: Yes! I have a sweet 3 year old Tuxedo kitty named Akeem, aka "Keem Dawg" aka "Keemie". He is named after the character Prince Akeem from the cult classic movie "Coming to America" :)
