Designer Kaoru Kay Akihara works from her Kobe atelier to present her creations to a world audience under the company name Gimel.

Over almost two decades she has built a faithful client base in her native Japan, winning a strong following for her unique work.

On seeing Akihara’s designs it is evident that this must be the work of someone whose entire psyche centres on the importance of tradition and perfection… certainly she was well versed in many traditional Japanese arts and ceremonies as a young woman. Her introduction to the world of jewellery came later. After reading economics at university she decided to study jewellery appraisal and design at the GIA in Los Angeles.

Looking closely at Kaoru Akihara’s work, one is aware that her designs could not be realised without a total commitment to excellence. The pre-paration for a new piece starts with the careful selection of the precious stones required. Akihara and her team hand pick each stone, no matter how small; matching it against the other stones to be used next to it so that the proportion, size, brilliance and colour all ensure perfect continuity. The traditional European technique of pavé setting enables Akihara to achieve a wonderful hue to her jewellery pieces and to use precious stones like an artist uses his palette.

It is the craftsmanship and perfection in Akihara’s work that led to her partnership with Paspaley. For Kaoru Akihara the pearl is now one of her favourite gemstones. Originally she did not work with pearls in her jewellery designs until she saw the quality and beauty of Paspaley’s South Sea cultured pearls.

Akihara’s philosophy for Gimel jewellery pieces is that “Jewellery is a long lasting beauty to be enjoyed for generations to come over hundreds of years”.

Only in South Sea pearls has she found those same qualities that adhere to her philosophy. Over time they become a part of the wearer’s life and last for generations beyond. Kaoru Akihara believes that, as you take these pearls in your hand or wear them, you feel a special tenderness towards them that is not found in any other gem, one that helps you through life’s challenges; a gem more personal than any other. Perhaps it is because they too are born of nature that South Sea pearls are so captivating.

To enhance her strand of South Sea pearls Akihara has created four clasps – one for each season. By adding different “seasons” to the strand, the colours of each seasonal clasp bring out another beautiful aspect. These clasps are auspicious enough to make a “grand entrance” or simply to be worn everyday. For Kaoru Akihara the most important element is that these clasps are the perfect accompaniment to South Sea pearls, as they accompany you on your journey through life, carving your own unique story.

KAORU KAY AKIHARA
Gimel Trading Co. Ltd.
36-2 Okuike- Cho
Ashiya
Hyogo 659-0003
Japan
Tel: +81 797 22 0850
Fax: +81 797 31 6688