Raised among the striking rock formations of Tucson, Arizona, Aria Thomas, designer, gemologist, and founder of Eleux Jewelry (Denver, Colorado), has transformed a lifelong love of stones into a distinctive fine jewelry brand. She brings hardstones—durable and often translucent or opaque—into the high-end jewelry spotlight by pairing them with diamonds and other precious gems.
The author connected with Thomas at the AGTA GemFair, where she shared insight into her design philosophy. Thomas explained that the stone comes first, and each design builds outward from there, with complementary hues and textures chosen to enhance the natural character of the centerpiece. Because of their organic forms, every piece is handmade and often prong-set to allow light to fully reveal each gem’s depth and detail. Various agates, opalized wood, and uniquely patterned turquoise (see above) are just a few of her favored storytellers, shaping the narrative of her bold fine jewelry designs.
Lisa Kennedy is technical advisor at GIA in New York.
Raised among the striking rock formations of Tucson, Arizona, Aria Thomas, designer, gemologist, and founder of Eleux Jewelry (Denver, Colorado), has transformed a lifelong love of stones into a distinctive fine jewelry brand. She brings hardstones—durable and often translucent or opaque—into the high-end jewelry spotlight by pairing them with diamonds and other precious gems.
The author connected with Thomas at the AGTA GemFair, where she shared insight into her design philosophy. Thomas explained that the stone comes first, and each design builds outward from there, with complementary hues and textures chosen to enhance the natural character of the centerpiece. Because of their organic forms, every piece is handmade and often prong-set to allow light to fully reveal each gem’s depth and detail. Various agates, opalized wood, and uniquely patterned turquoise (see above) are just a few of her favored storytellers, shaping the narrative of her bold fine jewelry designs.
Lisa Kennedy is technical advisor at GIA in New York.
