Layered diamond and gold necklaces, unique designs, and an oh-so-cool Los Angeles style — it could only be Anita Ko. Ever since launching in 2006, Anita Ko’s covetable collections have been snapped up by women who love her craftsmanship, diamond-focused design, and relaxed approach to fine jewelry. The collections are modern and luxurious, but above all, wearable. She is not afraid to take risks and share her authentic self within her designs, resulting in a notably unique and instantly identifiable jewelry line. She talks to us about launching her business, her designs, and new collections, Lucky and Luna.
How did you first launch your jewelry line and what were some of the challenges that came with it?
I first launched in 2006 — the most challenging part of the business was that I had to learn every step of the way because it was a totally new experience. I had to make a lot of mistakes and learn from them, and that’s always challenging, but imperative in the early stages.
You are known for your bespoke designs and one-of-a-kind pieces. What has been your favorite piece of jewelry you have ever designed?
Too many to name! I have so many favorite pieces and truly love designing every piece, as they each have their own special meaning to me. Recently I’ve been coveting my entire Zoe collection, I wear it all the time. I layer it with my other pieces and it’s probably one of my favorite plain gold collections to date.
Can you tell us about the new Lucky Collection?
Inspired by and named after my spirited French Bulldog, the Lucky Collection features the twelve animals of the Lunar Zodiac. Clients can choose any animal that personally speaks to them or represents who they are. We’ve also been customizing coins for clients of their own fur babies. During these uncertain times, our animals have been one of our greatest sources of emotional support. They bring us joy, a sense of responsibility, and unconditional love. This collection is a celebration of the special meaning animals bring to our lives.
Additionally, I am about to launch the Luna Collection. I’ve been really inspired by the way light reflects off of solid gold and wanted to play around with that for my Luna Collection. Similar to sequins — when the round links are layered on top of one another, it creates a beautiful reflection of lights and shadows. I love the way this collection moves and curves along with every natural curve of a woman’s body. My goal was to create something that makes women feel sexy, feminine, and bold.
What qualities do you look for in the perfect piece of jewelry?
It is important to me that each piece of jewelry that I create makes women feel beautiful, empowered, and confident. A perfect piece of jewelry is timeless; an item that can grow with you and be a part of you throughout the rest of your life. However, the most important quality, in my opinion, is how the perfect piece of jewelry makes you feel.
What is your everyday piece of jewelry that you can’t live without?
My diamond Hepburn necklaces which I love to layer with my diamond Zoe necklace, and I usually always add a Talisman of my dog Lucky boy.
Your jewelry has a very recognizable aesthetic — where did this come from?
I design for myself, my friends, and my clients. It’s important to me that they see a level of design and quality in my pieces, but most of all, that they’re proud to wear my pieces every day.
Who is the Anita Ko woman?
The Anita Ko woman is modern and classic, but with a unique edge. She exerts sophistication and femininity and is not afraid to be bold with her jewelry — mixing and matching and feeling good about everything she wears. She is from all walks of life — she could be a CEO, a surfer, a full-time mom, an artist, but what we all have in common is that we love how great diamonds make us feel.
From where, what, or whom do you draw inspiration?
Prior to Covid-19, it would’ve been from my travels and experiencing different cultures and walks of life around the world, but in the last year, I’ve been drawing inspiration from everyday life. Being born and raised in Los Angeles, I’ve always loved designing for a more luxurious yet relaxed lifestyle.
How do you approach layering jewelry?
Layering jewelry comes naturally to me. I’ve always just loved layering necklaces and letting them do their own thing on my neck. The key is to make sure your necklaces are of different lengths and sizes. The layered look has always been a big part of my style and the way I design, and has become somewhat of a staple from my line.
What makes Anita Ko unique and different? Does your line have a specific message you want to share with the world?
I think what makes my jewelry unique is the ability to wear high-end pieces while still looking effortless. I always hear from my clients that they can spot my designs on other women, and I think that’s because of the quality of the raw materials I use. My stones and diamonds are triple vetted, and I always try to set my pieces in a way that’s going to heighten the beauty of the materials I’m using. I hope my jewelry conveys the message that we as women deserve to feel beautiful during all hours of the day and through all walks of life.
Your designs have become a favorite amongst many A-list celebrities. What has been your pinch-me moment since launching Anita Ko?
I’ve had many throughout the years. My VIP team and I have worked incredibly hard and we’ve celebrated so many great accomplishments to date. We’ve been lucky enough to have so many amazing women support the brand. A few of my favorite girls like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber, Michelle Obama, and Charlize Theron have brought us so many great moments, but in recent times seeing Scarlett Johansson in my diamond earrings that I designed especially for her for the 2020 Academy Awards was an incredible milestone.
What is next for Anita Ko and what do you aspire to do with your business in the next five years?
This last year has taught me to never make rigid plans, however, I plan on continuing to make great jewelry that women want to wear every day, taking care of my team, maintaining my amazing relationships with my retailers, and growing my own direct-to-consumer business.
