Azki Jewelry

I work and live in Toronto, where I was born and raised. I founded Azki Jewelry in 2009 as an outlet for my creative passion. Growing up, our home was always filled with crafty projects — knitting, crocheting, sewing — the list goes on. Once, when my mom came home with a necklace design that she had found in "Bead Style" magazine, we set about re-creating it. We quickly discovered the big, wide world of jewelry design — so many materials to choose from, each with its own style and beauty. I was hooked!

While obtaining my Master's Degree in Economics from McMaster University and then working as a civil servant for the Government of Ontario, I spent years poring over books, online tutorials, taking jewelry design courses, meandering through bead stores for countless hours, shopping online for the best products and prices — it's been a labour of love, to say the least. My friends and family have gotten used to me invading their personal space to get a closer look at the jewelry they're wearing, looking for ideas on design and technique.

In 2014, I took the plunge and became a full-time jewelry artist. It's a lot of work, but I truly love making beautiful, high-quality jewelry with my own two hands. I'm thrilled by the connections I'm able to make with customers and retailers from around the world. I can't describe to you how happy it makes me to know that people are walking around feeling pretty because they're wearing something that I made just for them!

When I'm not working on my business, I'm pouring my time into learning about and supporting causes I believe in — namely, animal welfare, civic engagement, and healthy living.