I started creating Jewelry my last semester of college after being inspired by a combination things. In high school I couldn’t wear earrings due to my ears forming keloids which is a common scaring in the skin of people of African descendent . Eventually I had to have them surgically removed and was told that I could never pierce my ears again.I was devastated and not wearing earrings made me feel
less “girly” & I was often teased by my peers. Once I began college I met a jewelry Designer named Janelle… she converted any piece into clip on earrings for me & Suddenly I had hope the I too can wear earrings that weren’t “old lady” clip ons. I was so fascinated by the idea that I started to sketch and design jewelry and pay her to create my vision. Until one day I purchased the materials and built the courage to create my own pieces! My collection evolved from “The Wire” to EloExa which are the 1st 3 letters of my First and Last name. (Elo)uinia (Exa) ntus. Since then I have created pieces for Toccara former contestant on Americas next top Model, Tami from Vh1 basket ball wives Angela Simmons, Drake, Rihanna etc. I consider my jewelry as Unique. Futurustic & Artistic & the stones in my pieces carry metaphysical healing properties so I do consider myself as an healing artist. My Crown Collection is Art! inspired by the late Basquiat to uplift and empower this generation of young Kings and Queens. I plan to feature them in Art Galleries in the future. This briefly sums up my journey thus far ; it is a blessing to Create and inspire & I hope my story was heartfelt. Www.EloExa.com
