Sarah LesslerThe sparkling equestrian collection of jewelry by EXTRAORDINARI GEMS.
Ariana Thomas, owner and visionary behind ExtraordinAri Gems, merges the worlds of fine jewelry and equestrian elegance, creating timeless pieces that resonate with horse lovers and jewelry enthusiasts. As a GIA gemologist and first-generation jeweler based in Atlanta, Georgia, Ari specializes in crafting unique and custom fine jewelry inspired by the equestrian realm.
While traveling in Southeast Asia, Ari’s adoration and knowledge of the jewelry industry began to flourish. She connected with jewelers and mine owners to learn the complexities of the craft. Though not originally an equestrian, she was captivated by the equestrian world through friends. Attending prestigious events like Florida’s Winter Equestrian Festival and the Pegasus World Cup deepened her appreciation for the equestrian lifestyle and community. “I love the precision of the sport,” Ari remarks, “and seeing the combination of grace and athleticism of horses and riders.” Ari then blended her passion for making fine jewelry with her enthusiasm for the equestrian aesthetic.
ExtraordinAri’s jewelry-design process evolves from visionary inspiration to detailed sketches, followed by careful stone selection and handcrafting by master craftsman Americo Izzo. Ari explains that her designs begin by observing horses and riders and then meticulously researching and refining each piece, paying great attention to even the smallest details. She aims to create subtle and timeless equestrian pieces for riders to wear, both on the street and in the ring, as well as for equestrian enthusiasts. “I want to create pieces that resonate with people who love the sport,” Ari says.
She describes how the subtleties of equestrian pieces can be conversation starters with people who are “in the know” and often bring up personal stories of how horses are, or were, part of people’s lives. She hopes to see someone wearing her jewelry on a red carpet one day, adding an equestrian feel to their attire. Ari takes pride in discovering niche markets and forging personal connections with the people she meets. Her pieces are handcrafted and are cherished by her clientele. Her loyal customer base frequently returns for heirloom pieces to commemorate momentous occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and engagements. The traditional artisanship at the core of ExtraordinAri Gems is what sets her work apart.
“Our process involves hand-pulling all pieces of the metal wiring for prongs, meticulously soldering each setting, and conducting detailed pre-polishes that transcend what the eye can see,” Ari explains. She collaborates closely with customers throughout the design process, ensuring each piece tells its own unique story. The trust and relationships she has cultivated often allow her some creative freedom, as many customers return for more custom pieces, relying on her personalized designs and recommendations. “I hope my jewelry can not only celebrate but elevate the equestrian lifestyle,” Ari says, “with each piece a testament to the elegance and spirit of the sport.”
Check out her website to shop the ExtraordinAri Gems collection or work with Ari. To read the digital magazine version of this story, click here. Read about another EQ favorite jewelry designer, Irene Neuwirth.