Spotlyts

In the Spotlight: Ann Chikahisa

Ivy Simms

I have a deep love for books, coffee, and flowers—simple joys that fuel my creativity and keep me grounded. Writing is not only my career but also my way of inspiring positive change in the world, one thoughtful word at a time.

Ann Chikahisa

“Wearing Talismans is powerful because they are a physical touchstone… the jingle is like a song to get you to pause and remember ‘I am enough’.”

– Ann Chikahisa

Jewelry has always held a unique allure in fashion and self-expression and serves as more than mere adornments but as symbols of personal identity and empowerment. Among the myriad options available, talismanic jewelry stands out for its profound promise to imbue wearers with a sense of strength, purpose, and confidence.

Ann Chikahisa, the visionary designer and owner of Chikahisa Studio, understands this intrinsic power of jewelry better than most. With a background that seamlessly blends creativity and business acumen, Chikahisa has cultivated a brand that goes beyond crafting beautiful pieces to creating talismans that resonate deeply with wearers on a spiritual and emotional level.

At the heart of Chikahisa’s creations lies a belief in the transformative nature of talismanic jewelry. As she eloquently puts it, “Wearing Talismans is powerful because they are a physical touchstone… the jingle is like a song to get you to pause and remember ‘I am enough’.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of her designs – they serve as tangible reminders of inner strength, self-worth, and resilience, empowering wearers to tackle life’s challenges with confidence and grace.

Chikahisa’s journey into the world of talismanic jewelry is deeply rooted in personal experience. During a challenging period in her life, she turned to her art as a source of solace and inspiration. The creation of her first talisman, imbued with the essence of hope, marked the beginning of a transformative journey – not just for herself, but for countless others who have since been touched by her creations.

Know more about Ann Chikahisa’s story through this exclusive interview.

SM: Can you share with us the inspiration behind your journey into creating talismanic jewelry?

AC: My Talisman Journey: I was going through a devastating part of my life. My life as I knew it suddenly came to a halting stop. Feeling lost and depressed, I turned to my art. The one word that kept popping into my head was HOPE. Instantly I knew this is what I needed – a reason to keep moving forward through the darkness. I designed a pendant representing HOPE. It’s a simple textured piece with a small Spinel gemstone set inside. Spinel has healing properties to help calm the mind and combat anxiety. I put this pendant on a chain and wore it every day. It was my touchstone to remind myself that through this, I would be stronger. As I wore this piece, people began to comment on it. When I shared my story, so many women felt connected to it. I began to create these Talismans to help others on their own healing journey.

Ann Chikahisa 3
“I want women who wear these pieces to remember that they can do whatever they want in life! By wearing one of my talismans, she can feel the power imbued in it,” says Ann Chikahisa. (Photo credit: Ann Chikahisa)

SM: How do you define the concept of a talisman, and what sets it apart from traditional charms?

AC: Talismans have very specific intentions. The power they hold is created by the maker (me). This energy is infused with the piece while I’m making it. It is then transferred to the owner (wearer). Each Talisman I make has a specific intention designed for it. For example, I have a strength, love, healing, desire, etc. My Talismans are artistic interpretations of the words which make them even more meaningful and beautiful. You get to wear a piece of art that showcases your unique style! Charms tend to typically be more of a good luck type of adornment.

SM: Your talismans are designed with specific intentions in mind. Could you walk us through your creative process in imbuing these pieces with meaning and purpose?

AC: In the beginning, the Talismans were designed for specific intentions I was seeking for my personal healing. I have continued this tradition because the healing journey never really ends! First, I choose a word. Then I meditate about that word. What does it mean to me? What do I feel when I think of that word? What healing properties can help with that word? And then I start to play in the studio. I really don’t sketch an idea. I use what I call “creative zen” to guide me in the process. This is a state where I am in a state of bliss letting my hands do the creating. I try not to judge what I make because sometimes the ugliest piece will turn out as the most beautiful! Once it’s designed, the intention and energy are imbued by our energy around the word and any gemstones that help with bringing in the energy.

SM: Your collections feature talismans such as the Rooted, Desire, and Love pendants, each with its own unique symbolism. What inspired the design and concept behind these particular pieces?

AC: The inspiration behind those pieces is how I want people to feel. For me, feeling rooted helps me feel confident and know which direction I want to go. Often times, I feel lost and not know what I’m doing—a feeling of scatteredness—which I attribute to not being rooted and grounded. Being rooted helps me remember the importance of this.

“Desire” was created because I have secret desires that I’m not quite ready to share with anyone, but I want to put out into the world. This piece helps me hold that secret desire without being vulnerable and telling someone what’s in my heart. This pendant has a secret pocket where you can write down that desire! And no one will know what it is until you’re ready to reveal it!

“Love” was designed to represent love. I think this is a powerful piece because, at the end of the day, we are all looking for love. To be loved and to love someone. This talisman represents all types of love and reminds us to celebrate it. It’s very rough and organic in shape because I wanted to celebrate all our wounds as beauty. Our wounds are what make us unique and should be celebrated!

SM: Many of your talismans focus on themes of strength, self-belief, and love. How do you envision these pieces empowering the women who wear them?

AC: I think women aren’t raised to believe that we are strong and powerful. I was raised to be seen but not heard. But why is that? It’s taken me a long time to realize that I can do anything I set my mind on. Women are intelligent, strong, and powerful! I want them to know that they have so much inside themselves that needs to be shared with the world. Self-belief and confidence are key ingredients to creating the life you want. I want women who wear these pieces to remember that they can do whatever they want in life! By wearing one of my talismans, she can feel the power imbued in it. The talisman is a physical touchstone for her to remember her intentions.

talisman
According to Ann Chikahisa, “Talismans have very specific intentions.” (Photo credit: Ann Chikahisa)

SM: You mentioned that your jewelry serves as touchstones that reinforce positive energies to the wearer. Could you elaborate on how wearing a talisman can impact one’s mindset and confidence?

AC: For me, I’ve realized since that fateful day, that I didn’t believe in myself enough. I have had lots of self-doubt, fear, and insecurities that have held me back. I think we (women) weren’t raised to be powerful and to step into our full potential. The tide is changing now. You can feel the power and strength that women are becoming. Wearing Talismans is powerful because they are a physical touchstone. If you’re wearing it around your neck, you can touch it to remind yourself. They also make a beautiful sound when you’re moving- the jingle is like a song to get you to pause and remember “I am enough”.

When I know I have to be on my A-game, I’ll put on my strength Talisman. I’ll touch it right before I have to do a presentation. It gets me centered so that I can bring my A-game.

Customers have also shared their experiences on how they’ve worn their talismans and how it makes them feel. One woman had lost her husband. She’s been wearing the love, strength, and healing to help her create her next chapter. Another woman bought the strength talisman to wear while she trained for a marathon. Another has healing to help her through a battle of cancer.

These Talismans are also a roadmap for your journey. As I move through my life, I find that some days I need more strength and healing while other days I want to focus on my desires and wisdom. I can look at the talismans and remember why I designed each one of them and what was happening in my life at the time. I’ve had customers share that they too have experienced this.

SM: Transitioning from a corporate sales career to founding a successful online jewelry business is quite a leap. What motivated you to pursue your creative passion and establish Chikahisa Studio?

AC: Yes! It was quite a leap! It all began as a creative passion. I gave many pieces to friends and family as gifts. I think my one friend got tired of me giving away my jewelry so she suggested a trunk show. We invited our friends for a one-day show. I sold 65 pieces that day. And Chikahisa Studio was born.

SM: With over 15 years of experience as a business owner and jewelry designer, what valuable lessons have you learned along the way, especially in empowering women through your creations?

AC: The biggest lesson I have learned is to trust yourself. Follow your vision and your gut. It takes lots of courage to find it and believe in it. But once you do, your authentic self will lead you. It can be challenging, but I have found that following that vision is crucial. Otherwise, you’re not honoring yourself. I’ve seen how women respond when they put on my pieces. They get a glow. A confidence emerges. It’s the most beautiful feeling to see how my jewelry makes someone feel!

Talisman
“Wearing Talismanic jewelry can be a beautiful and powerful way to adorn yourself,” asserts Ann Chikahisa. (Photo credit Ann Chikahisa)

SM: Your jewelry has garnered attention from various media outlets and podcasts. How do you believe this visibility has contributed to spreading your message of empowerment and sustainability?

AC: Media outlets and podcasts have definitely helped! I’ll share my story with anyone who will listen!

SM: As a final thought, what message or advice would you like to share with individuals looking to embrace talismanic jewelry as a means of self-expression and empowerment?

AC: Wearing Talismanic jewelry can be a beautiful and powerful way to adorn yourself. My advice would be first, find a style that speaks to you. Next, think about what intentions you want to bring into your life. Once you’ve done that, have fun collecting and styling the pieces that have meaning! 🔆

“The biggest lesson I have learned is to trust yourself. Follow your vision and your gut… following that vision is crucial. Otherwise, you’re not honoring yourself.”

– Ann Chikahisa

Useful Links

Connect with Ann and her creations through the following links:

If you’d like to take a quiz to help you find your perfect talisman, Ann recommends this link: https://chikahisastudio.com/pages/creating-your-talisman-necklace

Note: This article also appears in the debut Spotlyts Magazine print and digital edition dedicated to fashion. Read below for further details.

Spotlyts Spotlights Fashion

The moment is finally here!

The inaugural issue of Spotlyts Magazine has been officially launched, shining a light on the transformative trends sweeping the fashion industry. Themed “Fashion Forward: Celebrating Diversity, Sustainability, and Innovation,” this edition explores the dynamic changes redefining the sector and features the stories and perspectives driving its evolution.

Gracing the cover is Alexis “Lexy” Silverstein, a champion of sustainable fashion, who embodies the magazine’s mission to highlight individuals, organizations, and initiatives promoting positive change.

This edition features exclusive interviews with notable figures, including:

  • Ann Chikahisa, Designer and Owner of Chikahisa Studio, who discusses the impact of fashion and the significance of talismanic jewelry.
  • Raegan Kerr, Founder and CEO of The Garde, who shares insights into the concept of elegant athleticism.
  • Sylvie Blum-Reid, Professor at the University of Florida, who explores the intersection of women, fashion, and film.
  • Emma Medeiros, President of Medeiros Fashion PR, who talks about inclusivity and innovation in fashion.
  • Deon Day, Owner of The Eyeshadow Pad, who addresses the revolution in cruelty-free makeup.
  • Diana Stelin, TEDx speaker and Owner of Gallerista Fashion, who discusses the artistry in fashion.
  • Elizabeth Wissinger, Professor at City University of New York, who offers insights on biodesign, glamour, and wearable technology.

Additional features highlight sustainable fashion, beauty revolutions, and the latest trends, with contributions from:

“Spotlyts Magazine Issue 1 – June 2024” celebrates the transformative power of fashion, offering inspiration and insight into a more inclusive, sustainable, and innovative future.

A version of this article also appears on Google News.

Several other versions appear in hundreds of websites across the globe including FOX, CBS, ABC, and NBC affiliates plus more.

Get Your Copy Today

Secure your coffee-table-worthy print and digital copies through the following links:

Spotlyts Magazine Issue 01 June 2024 Edition

By ALPJ and Sons Team in Spotlyts Magazine

130 pages, published 4/17/2025

Here now is the most-awaited Spotlyts Magazine inaugural edition dedicated to the transformative forces reshaping the world of fashion. Themed “Fashion Forward: Celebrating Diversity, Sustainability, and Innovation,” this issue explores the dynamic evolution within the industry and spotlights voices and stories that define its future.

🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆

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DISCLAIMER: Spotlyts Magazine does not provide any form of professional advice. All content is for informational purposes only, and the views expressed are those of individual contributors and may not reflect the official position of Spotlyts Magazine. While we strive for accuracy and follow editorial standards, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek professional assistance tailored to their specific needs. Any links included are for reference only, and Spotlyts Magazine is not responsible for the content or availability of external sites. For more details, please visit our full Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, and Terms of Service.

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4 responses to “In the Spotlight: Ann Chikahisa”

  1. Fermosalua

    I do believe in the power of energy, but even for people who think that crystals and such are all mumbo jumbo, the idea of jewelry working as an anchor of a positive intention has a solid psychological basis.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Sam Waverley

      Absolutely, the concept of jewelry serving as a tangible anchor for positive intentions resonates with psychological principles. Whether one believes in the metaphysical properties of crystals or not, the act of imbuing an object with personal meaning and intention can have a profound impact on one’s mindset and well-being. It’s like wearing a reminder of your goals or values, which can subtly influence your thoughts and actions throughout the day. Plus, the aesthetic appeal of jewelry adds to its uplifting effect, making it a stylish and meaningful accessory for many.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  2. Caley Rose

    I noticed your gorgeous piece today and then getting to learn the story behind your works just now was icing on the cake. The art you create is so strong and beautiful, just like you! I can’t wait to browse your work more and wear one someday!!!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply
    1. Sam Waverley

      Ann’s creations are truly remarkable, indeed. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

      Like

      Reply

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