African Luxury Jewelry
When we think of the Best of African Lifestyle, we think of VanLeles. VanLeles is an elegant
Jewelry brand that goes beyond aesthetics and design, and with each curve, gem and craftswomanship, depicts the richness of the continent’s resources. The narrative is that of Africa’s vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and riveting histories, all captured within each intricate design, serving as a source of inspiration to women globally.
Founded by former supermodel and Gem expert, Vania is the first fine jewelry owner of African descent to own a store on Bond Street. Leles spent her early life in Guinea-Bissau, a tropical country on West Africa’s Atlantic Coast. Travel was a huge part of her upbringing and by the time she was 17, she had traveled to 15 countries across the African continent.
In London, she was scouted to become a model and moved to New York where she walked for world-renowned fashion brands such as Yves Saint Lauren and Prada.
Vania’s inspiration to create jewelry occurred while she was onset on a photoshoot modeling jewelry. At the time the jewelry she wore happened to be sourced from the continent. It was then she realized the power jewelry had to reshape the African narrative of war, into one of pride, elegance and beauty. With further research, Vania found that the vast majority of these precious stones came from Africa, yet there was almost little ownership by Africans. Having found here new passion, she left modelling to pursue a career in Gemology
Fine Jewels Made from the heart of Africa
Vania took her new passion seriously, dedicating 10 years to carefully research and master the gemstone and jewelry industry. Leles enrolled herself at the Gemological Institute of America where she studied Gem, Design and Business Techniques. Afterwards, she dedicated two years to working as a Gemologist at Graff Diamond. She also worked at household names such as De Beers where she solidified her gemstone experience.
After a few years at Sotheby’s, she decided she had learned enough to pursue building a business that could change the industry and hasn’t looked back since.
Today Vanleles Diamonds have their own collections, all inspired by African countries where the diamonds are ethically sourced from various African nations including Mozambique. For example, one collection is her Zambian Edition, which features emeralds all sourced from Zambia.
Through a dedicated commitment to the ethical sourcing of gemstones and precious metals and an unparalleled belief in responsible mining, VANLELES is leading the way for a new era of mindful and engaged luxury. “I want to bring the source countries of these gemstones to the forefront of consumers' minds as they are the ones who have the power to change the industry through their demand.” says Vania.
