"I have always been fascinated by the cultural aspect of jewellery being an adornment, but also as a marker of memory and emotions," explains Catherine Sarr, founder of fine joaillerie brand Almasika. "I design jewellery that connects to larger traditions and significance, that span generations and cultures." After spending decades working in the industry in PR, Catherine decided to make the transition to become a jeweller and designer in 2014. For her, it was more than just designing pretty pieces of #facefurniture, it was about giving storytelling another medium. "I have been fortunate to work in the heart of the luxury and diamond industry, where I’ve been exposed to some of the world's most inspiring designers," she says. "Some of them were able to tell extraordinary stories through jewellery, which is an art, and I wanted to explore this notion."
What are her designs rooted in? Symbolism. "At the core of my design is universal shapes and stories, I am interested in overlapping circles in cultures," she explains. "To create a sort of universal form, universal meaning that can be felt, by any human whatever their culture, as something personal. My guiding philosophy has always been to find what we have in common with others."
To find out else we might have in common with Catherine, other than a love for her beautiful jewels, we put forward our 8Qs.
What is a book that you always come back to and why?
Nations Negres et Culture by Cheikh Anta Diop. My brother gave it to me when I was at university and I find myself often coming back to it when I do research. It’s an essential read for anyone interested in history, the ancient world and Africa. Diop is one of the most prolific scholars of the 20th century who paved the way for subsequent research in this area.
What is your morning ritual like?
My morning ritual is almost like two morning rituals. I start with some jump rope, I am learning to meditate and take some time to be with myself. I finish the first with a cup of warm water and lemon before the busier parts of my mornings begin. I proceed to get the kids ready for school and then it’s work, work, work. 
What is the best piece of advice you've received?
“Taking a step backward can be the way forward” The best pieces of advice I have received all relate to a notion of patience. Traditional adages have always shaped my approach to life. When I had a career break with my children, my mother would tell me traditional adages reflecting on patience. Sometimes you have to take a detour in life and know that your time will come. This notion even inspired the Stella (star in Latin) medallion in our Sagesse collection and this medallion is the most personal piece for me of this collection. It refers to the traditional Akan aphorism “Just as all the fruits do not ripen at the same time, so all the stars do not shine at the same time. Mine will shine someday.”
What is an ongoing goal of yours?
I am deeply involved in contemporary art and the arts in general so I’m always striving to help fellow creatives tell their stories. More personally, I aim to spend more time with my family and be intentional with my self care.
What's your party trick?
I can put the best playlist together. I love music!
If you could travel anywhere right now, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere, I would go to France to spend quality time with my family in a place that is home for me.
Name something that you're grateful for.
Health and family.
Name three things that you can't live without.
Family, faith and music.
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