THE COMPANY

KiraKira began in 2007 while designer and founder, Suz Somersall, lived and studied jewelry and metalsmithing in Italy and Japan. Dedicated to translating the beautiful natural and exquisite architecture that surrounded her into wearable art, she set up shop in her tiny apartment and starting handcrafting pieces. Within months, KiraKira had a devoted following.

In 2011, Suz moved across the world to NYC where she partnered with Whitney Blake to grow the company into what it is today. Outgrowing two apartments and three showrooms, KiraKira has shipped over 10,000 of KiraKira's signature fuchsia boxes to customers and boutiques around the world. Since starting, KiraKira has been featured in and on the cover of over 100 publications and has acquired a celebrity following.

KiraKira now has three distinct lines, the 'KiraKira' collection of fashion jewelry, the 'Luxe' collection of luxury and bridal jewelry, and the 'Suz Somersall' collection of handbags. Elegant forms, organic accents and superb technique and styling define both the jewelry and handbags. KiraKira's aesthetic is modern but nostalgic, often sourcing inspiration from the nature and architecture of the world's most exotic locations.

THE PEOPLE

Suz Somersall's love for jewelry and adornment began at an early age. Born and raised in New Orleans, living in this carnival city with French and Spanish influences, the opulent architecture, costumes and environment of New Orleans filled her with a great appreciation for design.

Her interest in form and shape grew as she studied the silhouetted artwork of Kara Walker as an undergraduate at Brown University, and then as a graduate student at the Rhode Island School of Design. She went on to pursue her passion for design in ateliers in Tuscany and on her own in Japan.

These locations, varied in their patterns, landscapes, and histories, form the diverse collection of Suz' s jewelry. Oxidized cherry blossoms, pearl studded antlers, empty Baroque cameos: all her inspirations begin as silhouettes and end as intricate adornments.

Whitney Blake graduated from Harvard where she studied economics and began her interest in fashion startups and marketing. After receiving a graduate degree at Columbia and an MBA at Chicago Booth, she partnered with Suz at KiraKira to grow the business based in New York City.

Whitney's passion for business development and love for beautiful jewelry and handbags fueled her desire to join the KiraKira team. Always having a penchant for beautiful accessories and handbags, it's a dream come true for her to be making them now!