Hancocks London partners with Native American jeweller

Hancocks London and Native American artist Sonwai are have embarked on a collaboration, marking the first time the artist will work with a European jeweller.

Recognised as one of the most important Native American jewellers, Sonwai is set to design and create a limited number of pieces exclusively for Hancocks London.

The first is an 18ct yellow gold cuff bangle, which will launch this month. Inlaid with a mosaic of turquoise, lapis lazuli, sugilite, spiny oyster shell and rosarita, the cuff is made wholly unique with the interior etching: ‘For Hancocks’.

Sonwai began her career in the 1960s, working alongside her uncle Charles Loloma, a legendary figure in Native American jewellery and widely regarded as the most collectible Native American jeweller of the 20th century.

Today, she continues his legacy while expressing a wholly individual artistic voice, combining traditional Hopi aesthetics with bold, contemporary design and her exceptional lapidary work.

Her work features in museum collection, and she creates only for private collectors and carefully selected galleries.

Creative director Amy Burton said“We are incredibly honoured to be working with Sonwai. Her jewellery is more than beautiful - it is powerful, sculptural, and deeply rooted in cultural identity.

“Each piece tells a story and is created with such precision, thought and artistry. To have her crafting jewels for Hancocks London is an exciting and important moment, not only for us but for our clients as well as collectors and connoisseurs alike.”

Further pieces from Sonwai’s studio will be released exclusively through Hancocks London over the next year.