Born from a love of culture, and Unrefyned is making modern African jewellery while celebrating the power of handmade design.
In a world where fast fashion often overshadows craftsmanship, jewellery and art brand Unrefyned stands as a celebration of originality and cultural storytelling. Founded in 2022, the brand bridges the worlds of modern design and traditional artistry, transforming recycled brass into sculptural pieces that carry both history and heart. Each creation is a reflection of founder Aina Dada’s journeys across Africa — encounters with artisans in Benin, Kenya, and Senegal who breathe life into every curve, texture, and form.
Rooted in a philosophy that honours the handmade and the human, Unrefyned is more than jewellery; it’s a statement of identity and intention. The brand was chosen for the Green Access cohort as part of Lagos Fashion Week to spotlight sustainability. This marks both a milestone and a moment of cultural resonance — where design, heritage, and authenticity converge. With every piece, Unrefyned invites wearers to embrace the beauty in what is raw, real, and enduringly African.
What year did you start “Unrefyned”, and what inspired you to launch the brand?
I started Unrefyned in 2022. It began from my love for culture, design, and handmade things that carry stories. I’ve previously spent years travelling across Africa and meeting artisans who create the most beautiful work using age-old techniques. I wanted to build something that connects all those experiences. Something that feels modern yet deeply rooted in traditional. That’s how “Unrefyned” came to life.
What does the name “Unrefyned” mean to you, and how does it reflect your creative philosophy?
The name is a play on “unrefined.” For me, it represents honesty and imperfection. Things that are real. I like to celebrate pieces that feel human, not overly polished or mass-produced. “Unrefyned” is about staying true to that raw, natural energy, both in design and in how we work. It’s also a reminder to create without trying too hard to fit into trends.
Can you walk us through your design process from concept to finished piece?
Everything starts with an idea or a feeling. Sometimes it’s from a place I’ve been, a cultural reference, or even a small detail that catches my eye. I sketch out rough ideas, then work with artisans across Benin, Kenya, and Senegal to bring them to life. We experiment with form and texture until it feels right. It’s not a rushed process.
How are your pieces made? Do you craft them by hand, collaborate with artisans, or use specific materials or techniques?
All our pieces are handmade by artisans I collaborate with across Africa. We mainly use recycled brass and traditional casting and hammering techniques. Every piece is slightly different because it’s made by hand, and that’s something I love. No two pieces are ever exactly alike. It gives the jewellery its own personality.
Your showcasing at Lagos Fashion Week — what does this moment mean for “Unrefyned?”
It’s an incredible milestone. Lagos Fashion Week is such an important platform for African creativity, and I’m proud that Unrefyned gets to be part of that story. It marks a new chapter for the brand and a moment to honour the craftsmanship and collaboration that define our work.
How do you balance artistry and wearability in your jewellery?
I think of each piece as something that should make a statement but still be easy to wear. I love bold, sculptural shapes, but I also test everything to make sure it feels comfortable: the weight, how it sits on the body, how it moves. I want people to feel confident wearing Unrefyned pieces every day, not just for special occasions.
What role does culture or personal identity play in your designs?
A big one. My travels and experiences across Africa shape almost everything I create. The stories, the textures, the way people express beauty differently in each place. Culture and identity aren’t just references; they’re part of how I design and why I do it. Every piece holds something personal, even if it’s subtle.
Why did you choose jewellery design as your creative outlet rather than another form of art or fashion?
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For me, Unrefyned has always been about celebrating African artisans and the beauty of handmade work. Jewellery was just where it began, a starting point that allowed me to explore design on a personal, human scale. There’s something powerful about creating pieces that people genuinely enjoy wearing, pieces that last and can be passed down as heirlooms. Over time, I see the brand evolving into a wider celebration of craft, working with leather, textiles, and woven carpets, and collaborating with makers across the continent. The goal has always been the same: to tell stories through things made by hand, with care, culture, and consciousness.
What challenges have you faced building Unrefyned, and how have they shaped you as a designer?
clearing fees, to figuring out how to grow sustainably while staying true to the brand. Working across multiple countries also comes with its own set of challenges. But it’s all taught me patience and resilience. I’ve learned to slow down, trust the process, and stay grounded in why I started.
What’s next for Unrefyned? Any upcoming projects, collaborations, or new directions you’re excited about?
I’m working on a few small collaborations with other African creatives, and I’m excited to experiment with new forms and materials. But overall, I just want to keep building at a pace that feels right, growing the brand thoughtfully.
Read More: The sacred adornment: A spiritual history of Jewellery in African culture
