New Discoveries: Vibrant Colours for Adventurous Women with Lisa Nik

July 19, 2024

By Katerina Perez

10 min read

One of the great joys of being a ‘jewellery explorer’ is having the opportunity to meet hugely accomplished and fascinating women, such as Lisa Nikfarjam. She’s a polyglot (five languages and counting), snowboarder, scuba diver, mother, sunshine-seeking international businesswoman and the founder of Lisa Nik – a brand that puts vibrant coloured gemstones at the forefront of its designs. Today, her uplifting jewels are sold globally, largely to intellectual and empowered women who want to buy their own mineralogical mood boosters! Below, you’ll find more of Lisa’s thoughts on colour, inspiration and trends, including the rise of bi-colour tourmalines…

Perhaps you saw on Instagram that I recently took my son to Monaco so that we could both participate in a fine jewellery trade show there. There’s something special about sharing your passions with your loved ones, which is something that Lisa Nikfarjam can relate to. Her son can name the coloured gemstones that cross her desk, and he “contributes regularly to the creative process,” which is so special! She says: “I want him to see the world through the lens of nature’s beauty and to appreciate what fascinating gemstones can be found in nature.”

Jewels from the Lisa Nik Rainbow collection, including a multi-colour sapphire Star ring and a 9.61 carat Mexican fire opal ring with diamonds, alongside the Golden Dreams necklace from the Colors collection with an 18.37 carat Mexican fire opal and diamonds, all in 18k yellow gold

Jewels from the Lisa Nik Rainbow collection, including a multi-colour sapphire Star ring and a 9.61 carat Mexican fire opal ring with diamonds, alongside the Golden Dreams necklace from the Colors collection with an 18.37 carat Mexican fire opal and diamonds, all in 18k yellow gold

As a brand, Lisa Nik somehow manages to capture these small pleasures in big ways. For example, there’s the tranquillity of the Greek Isles through blue topaz and aquamarine, the nuances of Lisa’s Persian heritage through warm-toned minerals and yellow gold, and the Californian blend of earth and sea captured in ombré gemstones and bi-colour stones. Even with her impressive CV working for world-renowned brands, the female-owned-and-operated company that Lisa runs today knows how to get to the emotion beneath the design – the feel-good factor – that is usually what turns a casual shopper into a lifelong collector! 

Lisa Nik Rainbow ring with 1.1 carats of multi-coloured sapphires and diamonds in 18k white gold

Lisa Nik Rainbow ring with 1.1 carats of multi-coloured sapphires and diamonds in 18k white gold

 Lisa Nik Diamond Droplet earrings from the Diamond Game collection with 1.05 carats of diamonds set in 18k rose gold

Lisa Nik Diamond Droplet earrings from the Diamond Game collection with 1.05 carats of diamonds set in 18k rose gold

 Lisa Nik necklace from the Colors collection with a 15.26 carat blue green indicolite tourmaline and diamond pendant, set on a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, all in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik necklace from the Colors collection with a 15.26 carat blue green indicolite tourmaline and diamond pendant, set on a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, all in 18k yellow gold

 Lisa Nik necklace from the Earth & Sea collection with an Australian boulder opal pendant on a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, both in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik necklace from the Earth & Sea collection with an Australian boulder opal pendant on a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, both in 18k yellow gold

 Lisa Nik Dragonfly pendant from the Talisman collection with 1.18 carats of blue sapphires and diamonds and the Diamond Swirl earrings from the Diamond Game collection, both in 18k white gold

Lisa Nik Dragonfly pendant from the Talisman collection with 1.18 carats of blue sapphires and diamonds and the Diamond Swirl earrings from the Diamond Game collection, both in 18k white gold

 Lisa Nik necklace with an asymmetrical mirror-cut morganite of 36.45 carats and diamonds, suspended from a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, both crafted in 18k rose gold

Lisa Nik necklace with an asymmetrical mirror-cut morganite of 36.45 carats and diamonds, suspended from a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, both crafted in 18k rose gold

I have been called Hollywood’s best-kept secret because we work with artists and celebrities directly to create a look that they feel good in and that can be worn every day as well as on the red carpet, Lisa Nikfarjam.

During our conversation, Lisa said that she hopes everyone who encounters her brand feels “that they are part of a greater mission”. This quest is about finding confidence, empowerment, optimism, happiness and an authentic sense of self. This may sound like a lofty goal, but if more than a decade in jewellery has taught me anything, it’s that its powers can’t be underestimated! 

Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including the Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and diamonds, alongside a 20.30 carat golden beryl and diamond ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including the Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and diamonds, alongside a 20.30 carat golden beryl and diamond ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

 Lisa Nik Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and 0.35 carats of diamonds in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and 0.35 carats of diamonds in 18k yellow gold

 Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including the Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and diamonds, alongside a 20.30 carat golden beryl and diamond ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including the Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and diamonds, alongside a 20.30 carat golden beryl and diamond ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

 A closer look at two rings by Lisa Nik, including the Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and diamonds, alongside a 20.30 carat golden beryl and diamond ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

A closer look at two rings by Lisa Nik, including the Butterfly Flower Bypass ring from the Rainbow collection with 1.6 carats of yellow and blue sapphires and diamonds, alongside a 20.30 carat golden beryl and diamond ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

Katerina Perez: How did your career in jewellery start, and what propelled you in that direction?

Lisa Nikfarjam: I graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, and began working for an Italian luxury jewellery firm, thinking it would be an interesting summer job. I spent the next eleven and a half years helping to build the brand in North America and eventually became Executive Vice President. During this time, I designed and developed many bestselling items and collections and realised that my passion was most fuelled by the creativity of design and product development. I founded Lisa Nik after leaving this corporate role to create a collection of my own, focusing on coloured gemstones and diamonds and offering a strong personal touch.

Lisa Nik Amethyst Triangle ring from the Colors collection with a 17.36 carat amethyst and diamonds in 18k rose gold

Lisa Nik Amethyst Triangle ring from the Colors collection with a 17.36 carat amethyst and diamonds in 18k rose gold

 Lisa Nik earrings from the Colors collection with 19.39 carats of watermelon tourmaline and diamonds in 18k rose gold

Lisa Nik earrings from the Colors collection with 19.39 carats of watermelon tourmaline and diamonds in 18k rose gold

 Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with an 18.81 carat watermelon tourmaline and 0.50 carats of diamonds, set in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with an 18.81 carat watermelon tourmaline and 0.50 carats of diamonds, set in 18k yellow gold

 Lisa Nik Aquamarine Triangle pendant from the Colors collection with a 14.23 carat aquamarine suspended from a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, both crafted in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik Aquamarine Triangle pendant from the Colors collection with a 14.23 carat aquamarine suspended from a Golden Dreams paperclip chain, both crafted in 18k yellow gold

 Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with an 8.56 carat bi-colour pink tourmaline and 0.57 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose gold

Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with an 8.56 carat bi-colour pink tourmaline and 0.57 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose gold

KP: What would you say is the ethos behind your brand?

LN: I always say that my collection is for the woman who wants to make a new discovery. She is attracted to things that her friends do not have. She is not afraid to be the first to try something new. There is a strong one-of-a-kind component to the collection, so this is why women like to collect it. The collection catches the eye of the woman that is captivated by bold colour, classically styled. It can be expensive, but she doesn’t need everyone to know it. I wanted my collection to be wearable every day and approachable as a self-purchase. I started by making a series of cocktail rings with colourful gemstones that I called ‘jeans rings’ because they were perfect for casual wear… with jeans and a t-shirt. The world of coloured gemstones is my obsession, and I continue to be fascinated everyday by the unusual colours that are found in nature from all around the world.

A model wears jewellery by Lisa Nik, including the Cushion ring from the Rocks collection with a blue topaz and diamonds in 18k white gold, a platinum ring from the Diamond Game collection with 7.82 carats of diamonds, and a pair of diamond hoop earrings with shield-shaped blue topaz charms from the Rocks and Sparkle collection

A model wears jewellery by Lisa Nik, including the Cushion ring from the Rocks collection with a blue topaz and diamonds in 18k white gold, a platinum ring from the Diamond Game collection with 7.82 carats of diamonds, and a pair of diamond hoop earrings with shield-shaped blue topaz charms from the Rocks and Sparkle collection

KP: Can you point to a particular piece or collection that really exemplifies your signature style?

LN: I think that the asymmetrical statement earrings really channel the values I represent as a designer. Our collectors are elegant yet eccentric with their jewellery. They take risks and might wear something a little bit larger than usual because they like to stand out. These earrings are long and expressive but can still be worn during the day. I am at my best when I am creating custom pieces after getting to know someone. My deep connection to each client is a powerful source of inspiration to designing with confidence. I loved crafting a bespoke Paraiba tourmaline and diamond cuff bracelet recently, and a bold cushion-shaped blue-green tourmaline ring. In both situations, the clients’ personalities were expressed with my added signature details.

KP: Is there a particular type of woman who loves your jewellery?

LN: I have noticed that most of the women who love and collect my jewellery are strong, intellectual, creative, empowered women. The brand is intended for women of all ages, and it does have international appeal. Our customers are well travelled and have so many choices when they shop. They connect with the brand because they love the origin story. It’s the ultimate entrepreneurial story of an American brand that began from scratch. The brand is exclusive and luxurious yet still highly inclusive.

Katerina Perez wears a Colors collection ring by Lisa Nik featuring a 17.85 carat rubellite and 2.42 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose and white gold

Katerina Perez wears a Colors collection ring by Lisa Nik featuring a 17.85 carat rubellite and 2.42 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose and white gold

KP: Obviously, colour is a huge part of your story. Can you remember how your passion for coloured gemstones originated?

LN: I have always been passionate about the beauty and colours found in nature all around me. From my working years in New York, the metropolis is an explosion of colour, to my studies and subsequent launch of my brand in Los Angeles, where there is an endless bounty of colours – the California mountains, flowers, the ocean, etc. Really, the origin of my passion for coloured gemstones started with the colour blue. When I saw turquoise and blue gems for the first time, I was captivated by how these stones had the power to take my imagination to a day at the beach. I realised how powerful gemstones are and how powerful colour can be. They have the power to evoke emotion and express feelings. My favourite part of styling people in colour is mixing them up.

Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including (left hand) a 17.85 carat rubellite Flower ring (index), a 9.76 carat Asscher-cut rubellite ring (middle), a 15.87 carat rubellite ring (ring finger), and (right hand) a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and diamond ring, all in 18k rose and white gold

Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including (left hand) a 17.85 carat rubellite Flower ring (index), a 9.76 carat Asscher-cut rubellite ring (middle), a 15.87 carat rubellite ring (ring finger), and (right hand) a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and diamond ring, all in 18k rose and white gold

 Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and 0.72 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose gold

Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and 0.72 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose gold

 Side view of a Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and 0.72 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose gold

Side view of a Lisa Nik ring from the Colors collection with a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and 0.72 carats of diamonds, set in 18k rose gold

 Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including (left hand) a 17.85 carat rubellite Flower ring (index), a 9.76 carat Asscher-cut rubellite ring (middle), a 15.87 carat rubellite ring (ring finger), and (right hand) a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and diamond ring, all in 18k rose and white gold

Katerina Perez wears rings by Lisa Nik, including (left hand) a 17.85 carat rubellite Flower ring (index), a 9.76 carat Asscher-cut rubellite ring (middle), a 15.87 carat rubellite ring (ring finger), and (right hand) a 10.20 carat bi-colour pink-purple tourmaline and diamond ring, all in 18k rose and white gold

KP: Do you have a favourite gemstone to work with?

LN: Multicoloured sapphires are currently the most popular part of the collection. I was one of the first designers to really start showing rainbow sapphires as a collection in jewellery. We continue to evolve this collection, and I find the ombré colours extremely fun to work with. For the larger gemstone cocktail rings, I always look for the most beautiful blue-green tourmaline available on earth. And a personal favourite is Mexican fire opal. I hunt for the deepest red colours I can find in this material, and they are extremely rare.

KP: What would you say is trending right now?

LN: Bi-colour gems are certainly trending right now although I started working with them several years ago. We have a collection of bi-coloured tourmaline jewels that we named after cocktails based on the colour combinations represented. For example… Tequila lime, Strawberry margarita, or Mai tai. Collectors love these gems because they are the ultimate expression of nature’s beauty.

Lisa Nik watermelon tourmaline ring from the Colors collection with an emerald-cut watermelon tourmaline of 30.27 carats and 1.6 carats of diamonds, set in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik watermelon tourmaline ring from the Colors collection with an emerald-cut watermelon tourmaline of 30.27 carats and 1.6 carats of diamonds, set in 18k yellow gold

 A side view of a Colors collection cocktail ring by Lisa Nik, set with an emerald-cut watermelon tourmaline of 30.27 carats and 1.6 carats of diamonds in 18k yellow gold

A side view of a Colors collection cocktail ring by Lisa Nik, set with an emerald-cut watermelon tourmaline of 30.27 carats and 1.6 carats of diamonds in 18k yellow gold

 Heart-shaped details in the 18k yellow gold setting of a Colors collection cocktail ring by Lisa Nik, complete with 1.6 carats of diamonds and a 30.27 carat emerald-cut watermelon tourmaline

Heart-shaped details in the 18k yellow gold setting of a Colors collection cocktail ring by Lisa Nik, complete with 1.6 carats of diamonds and a 30.27 carat emerald-cut watermelon tourmaline

KP: What about your personal style? Are there any pieces you wear every day?

LN: I am a creature of habit and tend to wear the same pieces for a period of time, and then I change them and wear something else for another period of time. I am always on the go, so I try to be neutral with an edge. I always keep a set of yellow gold, a set of white gold, and a set of rose gold with me so that I can choose metal colours to wear on any given day. I wear a hand chain and diamond earring climbers in my second ear piercing. Then, I decide if it’s a chunky chain day or a diamond hand day with stackable rings on each finger. Daily bling is essential for me, and my go-to is my Colombian emerald heart-shaped necklace. I also love wearing my double butterfly earrings.

Lisa Nikfarjam wears diamond hoops from the Sparkle collection, Butterfly Flower necklaces from the Rainbow collection with pink sapphires, tsavorite garnets and diamonds, and rings including two Butterfly Flower Bypass rings from the Rainbow collection with yellow, blue and pink sapphires and diamonds, both in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nikfarjam wears diamond hoops from the Sparkle collection, Butterfly Flower necklaces from the Rainbow collection with pink sapphires, tsavorite garnets and diamonds, and rings including two Butterfly Flower Bypass rings from the Rainbow collection with yellow, blue and pink sapphires and diamonds, both in 18k yellow gold

KP: What newness have you introduced to the Lisa Nik collection in recent months?

LN: We have an increasing number of requests for petite diamond layering pieces. I think this has been triggered by the need to layer diamond pieces with our coloured stone jewellery. I am developing a lot of yellow gold styles in this category and find that women are leaning towards these items because they are so easy to wear for any occasion. I am also adding gold links to the collection, again due to numerous requests for high-quality gold earrings, bracelets, and necklaces to combine with our bold gemstone jewels.

KP: What is on the horizon for your brand? What can we expect in the future?

LN: We are strengthening our presence at Neiman Marcus across the county, which is a milestone in our brand’s history. We have also been working on developing a fantastic collection of high jewellery, some of which was introduced recently at the Couture Show in Las Vegas. This fall, we are launching new pieces from our Diamond Game collection, which represents red carpet style and more dramatic pieces.

Lisa Nik rings including the multi-coloured sapphire Star ring from the Rainbow collection and a 9.61 carat Mexican fire opal cocktail ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

Lisa Nik rings including the multi-coloured sapphire Star ring from the Rainbow collection and a 9.61 carat Mexican fire opal cocktail ring from the Colors collection, both in 18k yellow gold

Despite all her success, I am struck by Lisa’s down-to-earth attitude. Perhaps it is because her collections are so inspired by the summer, the soothing back-and-forth of waves crashing against the beach, and the simple joys of family life… something that many of us can relate to. She’s a woman designing for women who live similarly busy but fulfilled lives, which is very admirable indeed.

Bicolour Tourmalines: This Trending Gemstone is a Collector’s Dream

continue reading

The Psychology of Jewellery: Why We Adorn Ourselves

From the earliest civilisations to contemporary fashion catwalks, humans have consistently sought ways to embellish themselves. Transcending mere decoration, jewellery acts as a powerful expression of identity, status and emotion. Whether it's the intricate beadwork of ancient societies or the minimalist designs of modern artisans, our choices in adornment reveal layers of personal and cultural narratives. 

by Claire Roberts

Gem Renaissance: Insights from GemGenève Talk on Coloured Gemstones

One of the most exciting shifts in the world of fine jewellery today is the growing appreciation for coloured gemstones, especially those beyond the traditional “Big Three” of rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. So, when the organisers of GemGenève invited me to do a talk, I instantly knew what subject I was going to touch upon - the rise of colour.

by Katerina Perez

Epic Evolution: Miseno Launches the Arco Collection to Celebrate a Fabulous Decade 

Miseno is a brand that I have followed closely over the past decade, largely because of its intriguing transatlantic flair that blends Italian heritage and craftsmanship with the pizzazz of New York City. Now, I am pleased to present to you my highlights of the new Arco High Jewellery collection.

by Katerina Perez

A Dazzling Decade: Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Yi Collection

Since celebrating the 10-year anniversary of KaterinaPerez.com in 2023, I will admit to having a newfound appreciation and respect for any fellow business owner who reaches this incredible milestone. It’s certainly not easy to maintain high levels of creativity and craftsmanship, especially with a consistent focus on quality and professionalism.

by Sarah Jordan

Wow Effect: Exploring the Inventive Artistry of Serafino Consoli

While doing my duties as a judge at the 2025 Inhorgenta Awards, I had the pleasure of being introduced to the team behind Serafino Consoli – an Italian brand with a unique claim to fame in the high jewellery world.

by Katerina Perez

Essential Passion: The Artistic Pursuits of Mehragin Rahmati of Mergin Jewelry 

Jewellery can be thoughtful and insular, or it can be effusive and bold and full of character that makes it stand out from the crowd. I would put the colourful and charismatic creations of Mehragin Rahmati into the latter camp because of their attention-grabbing silhouettes, unusual structures, and confident mineral palettes.

by Katerina Perez

Maestro of Masterpieces: New High Jewels in the Picchiotti Classics Collection

Ahead of this year’s Couture show in Las Vegas, Picchiotti has revealed some of the latest additions to its high jewellery repertoire, including new suites in the Picchiotti Classics collection.

by Sarah Jordan

Reasons to Shop: The Moments that Demand a Fresh Jewellery Purchase 

There's no rule that says you need a reason to buy a new piece of jewellery, but sometimes, a little encouragement makes the decision even more exciting. If you're looking for a playful excuse to book your next jewellery appointment, here are a few irresistible reasons to treat yourself.

by Hirshi Sujanti

Grecian Glamour: The Designers Preparing to Spotlight Greek Style at JCK Las Vegas

Recently, I was approached by the organisers of a special ‘Greek mission’ who are supporting 11 independent designers and brands as they seek to make their mark at JCK Las Vegas from June 6-9, 2025. Below, I would like to introduce you to each of the businesses participating in this incredible showcase of Greek design, ingenuity and craftsmanship.

by Katerina Perez

Naked Attraction: The Best High Jewellery of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival 

Here’s a rundown of some of the best Cannes jewellery looks from the 78th annual festival (May 13-24), including the likes of Dakota Johnson, Angelina Jolie, and Natalie Portman, who all make striking jewellery the star of their ensembles

by Sarah Jordan

In Conversation: Discussing Paraiba — The Legacy of a Color with Vogue Singapore

The conversation encouraged both myself and Kevin Ferreira, my co-author, to recall exactly why we wrote Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color, and I am pleased to share more with you below

by Katerina Perez

Semi-Precious vs Precious Gemstones: Why the Old Labels No Longer Work

I can’t count the number of times I’ve asked myself: what really sets so-called precious and semi-precious stonesapart? Is it their rarity? Colour? Durability? Value? Or is it simply tradition—an outdated hierarchy we’ve inherited without question

by Katerina Perez

Latest Stories

Add articles and images to your favourites. Just

Legacy of Love:The Dreamlike Jewels of Emirati Designer Mariyeh Ghelichkhani

During our meeting in Dubai, we spoke about the importance of family, the sweetness of finding joy through creativity, and the ability to translate dreamy visions and deep feelings into wearable pieces…

by Katerina Perez

Jewels Katerina Perez Loves

Continue Reading

Writing Adventures:Co-Authoring the Book

Paraiba: The Legacy of a Color

by Katerina Perez

Jewellery Insights straight to your inbox

Style Guide

By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.