Acanthus is a newly launched collection of contemporary yet timeless jewelry that combines designer Nichole McIver’s love of art history and fashion. Using semi-precious stones and 14k gold fill wire, chain, and beads, Nichole custom makes each piece from her studio in Portland, OR. Launched in July 2010, Acanthusjewelry.com offers a selection of necklaces, earrings, and bracelets using amethyst, garnet, iolite, and quartz stones retailing for $55 to $240.
Named after the acanthus plant, whose spiny, flowing leaves have been incorporated in design motifs ranging from the columns of Ancient Rome to the pages of Medieval manuscripts, Acanthus jewelry features classic designs reflecting Nichole’s background in art history. Self-taught, Nichole was inspired to create her collection as a way to channel her creativity and artistic training.
Many pieces draw from her love of ancient art, including the Quatrefolia necklace, $120, a four-leaf motif found in Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance manuscripts. Other favorites include the Gemma necklace, $85 to $100, designed to be layered or worn alone, consisting of a drop pendant in a variety of semi-precious stones including blue chalcedony and onyx. The Alexandra earrings, $130, are a fresh twist on traditional hoop earrings, featuring beaded link hoops made of gold fill beads. The Anne bracelets, $75, are made of faceted gemstone rondelles and look great clustered on the wrist.
“I feel like the gold not only enhances the colors of the gemstones best, but it also reflects that inspiration of the opulent manuscripts and ancient jewelry styles that I love,” said Nichole, who has a Masters in Art History from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
To view the entire collection and learn more about Acanthus, please visit www.acanthusjewelry.com.