Akasa Jewelry

Niki Negrete-Mitchell

Born in January, 1959 while my family was stationed in Orleans, France, I grew up a fourth generation Hispanic-American U.S. Army brat. Throughout the 60’s we moved like nomads back and forth across the country, even experiencing the Haight-Ashbury scene at its peak in 1968 while living in the San Francisco Presidio.

Even though I dabbled with some hippie beading back then and had a fascination for rocks on a scientific level, it wasn’t until 1995 that I realized my love for worldly, exotic beads. I was not only able to express myself creatively, but I was also taken by the essence of the natural stones and metals and the outrageous colors produced by the elements of this Earth. I realized the healing aspect of the gems since I happened to be challenged by illness myself back then.

Not only have I been blessed by this art, I now have the loving support of a creative husband and an enchanting daughter. Kevin is a Senior Graphic Designer in the advertising industry. While I am the one behind the idea and creation of Akasa Jewelry, he is the one responsible for Akasa Jewelry’s look and its branding. Gigi continues to keep me grounded with what the Earth has to offer us. I am constantly learning new and exciting things about the Earth and its inhabitants. She is an environmentalist and keeps me inspired to preserve our Earth. I look forward to sharing some of her ideas with you here.