Jewelry designer Maria Colette Hunt has always found inspiration in natural forms and shapes when creating her original line of jewelry, Bijoux by Colette. Working with carefully selected pearls, semiprecious and gemstones on sterling silver and 14 karat gold filled chain, Maria crafts sensuous jewelry that recalls the extraordinary balance and beauty found in shells, flowers and leaves.

Clients who seek to find their own natural balance have been drawn to the "Chakra Stone" collection, which is based on the belief that wearing stones of a particular hue can encourage positive attributes. Maria was thrilled when singer Lenny Kravitz wore her throat chakra necklace of turquoise, aquamarine and blue topaz -- stones thought to aid creativity and vocal expression -- on a concert stop in San Diego.

Bijoux by Colette is modern, but with an age-old sensibility that recalls classic forms and lines found in the temples of ancient Greece, Japanese poetry and the Victorian age. Colette often presents vintage cameos, carved ivory and silver filigree in new ways.

Whether it's a custom charm bracelet or a piece for a wedding trousseau, Maria loves creating jewelry that has personal meaning to each client. "I believe jewelry should enhance each wearer's own personal beauty and lifestyle," Maria says.

Contact: Email Maria or call 619 284-5600.