The Designer

Tanzanian born designer Jacqueline Kweka-Massawe combines the art of storytelling with a strong, contemporary African aesthetic.  Her signature juxtaposing of texture, shape and colour is articulated through her use of natural gemstones, and precious metals. Her design journey started at university, beginning with Architectural Studies and completing a Fine Art degree (Art History, Sculpture and Painting) at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the north east of England. Her interest in fashion led her through the London College of Fashion to study Jewellery Design.

Jacqueline Kweka-Massawe launched her first jewellery collection at an off-schedule London Fashion Week show (February 2012). Inspiration came from a trip to Arusha, Tanzania and the collection resulted in the designer being named as Retail Jeweler UK Jewellery Awards, Catwalk Jewels of the Year Finalist 2012, Fashions Finest Accessory Designer of the Year 2012 and Emerging Talent Finalists, British Council and British Fashion Council International Fashion Showcase 2013 (Tanzanian collaborative show).  The colours and extravagant shapes of Tanzanian traditional adornment translated in fashion captured the imagination of buyers, fashion editors and stylists.  Her Maasai beaded neck-pieces entitled “Uhuru Wings” have been featured in magazine editorials (Vogue Italia, Elle Uk, Cosmopolitan Italia) and adorning African celebrities on and off screen such as Omotola Ekiende, Tiwa Savage, Fuse ODG, Vanessa Mdee, Diamond Platnumz. 

Previously based in London and now settled in Dar Es Salaam,  the designer has taken the brand to a place of rebirth with a focus on gemstones from Africa creating Fine Jewellery, Adornment and Objet d'art. Beginning with an exploration of the gemstones of her native Tanzania,  Treasure Hunter Jacqueline works with small-scale miners and skilled local artisans to produce fine jewels and limited edition statement pieces for the home.  

JKM

'Treasurehunter'