If you’ve spent any time on social media in the last several weeks, you may have spotted—or been awe-struck by, or stared in a trance at—the creations of Akaila Reid.
Mesmerizing and magical glowing orbs of Ethiopian (and pink) opal are signatures of the New York–based jeweler Akaila Johnson, who officially debuted her namesake brand in 2020.
“I was living in New York as a young 20-something and not sure of what I wanted my life to look like. A family friend had studied at GIA many years ago and thought it might be something I would be interested in,” says Johnson of her start in the industry. “I went on a tour of the campus and it just felt right. I spent two years studying gemology and jewelry design at GIA and upon graduation decided to launch Akaila Reid.”
It would appear an excellent choice—the designer’s work feels remarkably fresh in a market that can’t get enough of opal jewelry: We’re obsessed with it, and it just seems to keep getting better.
“I feel like I’ve been unknowingly honing in on my aesthetic since I was a kid,” says Johnson. “I grew up dancing competitively and always wanted to have a say in what my costumes looked like. I was the girl who spent hours adding rhinestones to everything I could get my hands on. I’ve just always had this very feminine, fanciful style that is present in all aspects of my life.”
The works have serious crown jewel vibes, with an inherent wearability that makes them little (or big) every day luxuries. “Opals are a more delicate stone, but as long as they aren’t being smashed against things they can be worn every day. I wear an opal piece almost every day and have yet to have any catastrophes,” says Johnson. “I really want my jewelry to be worn as much and as often as possible, so I believe with a little care and attention anything can be your everyday jewelry.”
In addition to Akaila’s work—much of which is one-of-a-kind—the designer offers custom services, an aspect that enables her to create exceptional jewels for people, some near and dear. “The most special piece I’ve been able to design was an engagement ring for my mom, who recently got married. It’s not often that a daughter gets to be such an integral part of their mother’s love story, so that was really meaningful.”
“I’ve noticed recently many clients wanting pieces with heart-shape stones,” says Johnson, when asked about current trends in custom design. “They are probably my favorite shape but not seen as often as rounds, ovals, or emerald cuts, so they’ve been fun to work with. I find many people just want something they haven’t seen before or is different from what all their friends have, which makes my job more fun.”
As for what’s on the horizon for Akaila Reid, jewelry lovers are in luck: “I hope to bring out at least three or four new collections this year—two of which are already in the works. I’ve decided that this is the year I master Instagram so I’m hoping for a lot more engagement with clients via that platform. When it comes down to it I’m just hoping to continue to grow the brand and create beautiful pieces of art.”
Top: One-of-a-kind cuff bracelet in 18k yellow gold with 53.68 cts. t.w. Ethiopian opals and 12.07 cts. t.w. diamonds, $40,000; Akaila Reid
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