Croc star

Ivorian jewellery brand Ohiri Studio's offering has its roots in symbolism, shared cultures and sustainability

- MAZZI ODU

Founded in 2012 by the based designer Akébéhi Kpolo, jewellery brand Ohiri Studio explores the diversity and commonality found across different West African cultures. 'I was raised by parents who were in love with African culture, art and design,' she says. 'My friends used to say my house was like a museum because there were so many different forms of art. I don't have a French name, I just have an Ivorian name as embracing our culture was so important.' Kpolo articulates this through the lens of the Akan, an ethnic group present primarily in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana.

'I wanted to present the Akan culture in three different parts: firstly, via their making techniques, secondly, through the material they use, which is principally gold, and finally, the symbolism behind the pieces.