Hancocks partners with Native American artist Verma Nequatewa

Hancocks London has announced its new partnership with the celebrated Native American artist Verma Nequatewa, known professionally as Sonwai, marking the first  time she will be making jewels for a jeweller in Europe. 

Recognised globally as one of the “most important” Native American jewellers working today,  Sonwai will be creating a limited number of pieces for Hancocks London, with the  first, a vibrant 18ct yellow gold cuff bangle, launching as the jeweller’s Jewel of the Month for June. 

Entirely handmade in her Arizona studio, the cuff is inlaid with a mosaic of turquoise, lapis lazuli, sugilite, spiny oyster shell, and rosarita. The interior is etched “For Hancocks”, underscoring the exclusivity of this significant partnership. 

Sonwai began her career in the 1960s, working alongside her uncle, Charles Loloma, a “legendary” figure in Native American jewellery and widely regarded as the most collectible Native American jeweller of the 20th Century. 

Today, she continues his legacy, combining traditional Hopi aesthetics with “bold”, “contemporary” design  and her lapidary work.

Sonwai’s work can be found in major museum collections and is sought after worldwide. She is known for creating only for private collectors and carefully selected galleries.

Further pieces from Sonwai’s studio will be released exclusively through Hancocks London over  the next year. 

Amy Burton, creative director of Hancocks London, said: “We are incredibly honoured to be working with Sonwai. Her jewellery is more than beautiful—it is powerful, sculptural, and deeply rooted in cultural identity. Each piece tells a story and is created with such precision, thought and artistry. 

“To have her crafting jewels for Hancocks London is an exciting and important moment, not only for us but for our clients as well as collectors and connoisseurs alike.”