Wrapped Branch Necklace by Anna Balkan
Growing up in Chernobyl, Anna learned at an early age to be resourceful and to inject her grey world with as much coloras possible. She learned to knit and crochet and to make things from whatever was on hand. Later on she joined a Masters of Engineering program where she learned three-dimensional design. Anna immigrated to the US at the age of 20 as a political refugee with practically nothing, including no knowledge of how to speak the language. Through hard work and trust, Anna learned to speak English and returned to school for Economics.
Oxidized Swirl Earrings by Anna Balkan
After the birth of her daughter, Anna decided to leave the career she'd built in the world of project management and follow her childhood passion of jewelry-making. She puts her love of color and texture into every new creation. Her three collections are very distinctive. The Russia collection is colorful and reminiscent of Faberge, Pop Art nods to the marriage of classic vintage and modern styles, while the Simone line focuses on the soothing colors of the Mediterranean. Chains and metal components are all gold, sterling silver or oxidized silver.
Pop Art necklace by Anna BalkanAnna Balkan's jewelry looks good enough to eat. Her unusual, unexpected color choices turn her necklaces, earrings and bracelets into little treasures. Anna believes in the power of jewelry to connect with other women and to inspire confidence in others. Her creations are reflective of a life of change and metamorphosis.
