Any girl loves a fabulous piece of jewelry. Bounkit jewelry is exactly the accessory you are looking for: statement pieces in jeweled tones to compliment any of your outfits. His designs, attributing to his Mediterranean background, represent modern architecture and the natural elements.

Moroccan-born HASSAN BOUNKIT has been making vibrant art-deco jewelry since 2006. Based in New York City, his jewelry has been worn on countless occasions in the teen-drama, Gossip Girl, representing the glamorous Upper East Side lifestyle. He has also accessorized multiple celebrities, including LIV TYLER, SELMA HAYEK, and OPRAH.

Can you tell us a little bit about Bounkit?

Bounkit is a jewelry line that caters to a well traveled lady who appreciates organic colored semi precious stones, yet  is confident enough to be different than the rest.

When did you realize that you had a passion for jewelry?

When I was six years old my father used to own a clothing store and there was a showcase with some costume jewelry, it was my favorite corner.

When did you decide to start your own brand? What made you decide to do it?

I decided to start my own brand in 2006. I used to assist another designer, and some of the designs I did for him were well received.

Your jewelry is all hand-made. How much time approximately goes into one piece?

Some pieces take 3 hours and others 3 days.

What have you learned from previous experience with designers, such as FERRGAMAO or NICOLE MILLER, which you’ve carried into your own brand?

Working in couture houses exposed me to high end quality materials and the intricate  details. With NICOLE MILLER, I learned that a design should be practical.

What’s it like seeing your jewelry grace multiple celebrities and hit TV shows?

It makes me work harder in order to keep the interest constant.

Do you have an inspirational muse or specific woman who inspires you particularly?

Growing up watching my mother wearing big jewelry especially cocktail rings has influenced my designs.

Do you often visit your home country of Morocco for inspiration?

I try to go once a year.

In your opinion, where is the best meal in Morocco?

Mother’s Kitchen!

What aspects from Morocco translate into your jewelry?

I came from a Berber family, where we appreciate the organic colored stones and its spiritual powers.

You now live and work in NYC. What are some of your favorite spots?

Living in the NYC makes me appreciate the master pieces made by hand from different artists at the Metropolitan Museum.

Is there anything from NYC in particular that inspires your work?

I enjoy going to the Opera for the amazing costumes and accessories.

Where do you hope Bounkit will be in a few years?

I hope that Bounkit will be available and recognized in all Arab countries, and be worn by some of my favorite Arab and Middle Eastern stars!

Shop for BOUNKIT here at DIA BOUTIQUE

Written By Laurel Harple

Images courtesy of Bounkit

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